Matter, Change, and Scientific Measurements

Vocabulary flashcards covering core definitions, states of matter, element symbols, physical and chemical properties, and intensive vs. extensive properties from Unit 1.

Chemistry

The study of matter.

Matter

Everything that has mass and takes up space.

Non-Matter Examples

Forms such as light or electricity, which do not have mass or take up space.

Solid

A state of matter characterized by a definite shape and a definite volume.

Liquid

A state of matter characterized by a defined volume, but not a defined shape.

Gas

A state of matter that does not have a defined shape or volume and will fill any space.

Element Symbols Rules

Single-letter symbols must be upper case. Two-letter symbols must consist of an upper case letter followed by a lower case letter.

Physical Properties

Properties of matter that can be directly measured or observed, such as mass (e.g., $75$\,grams) or melting point (e.g., $10\,^{\circ}\text{C}$).

Chemical Properties

Properties that describe reactivity and are determined by a chemical reaction, such as decomposing to form carbon dioxide and water.

Chemical Property Describing Words

Words used to identify chemical properties, including "reacts", "decomposes", and "reacts to form".

Extensive Properties

Properties that depend on the size or quantity of the sample, such as mass and weight.

Intensive Properties

Properties that do not depend on the size or quantity of the sample, such as color, temperature, and boiling point.