Chemistry Revision Flashcards for Grade 12

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and definitions related to organic chemistry, acids and bases, electrochemistry, and general chemistry principles relevant to Grade 12 Physical Sciences.

Organic Molecules

Compounds primarily consisting of carbon and hydrogen, often containing functional groups.

Hydrocarbons

Organic compounds consisting of only carbon and hydrogen.

Functional Group

A specific group of atoms or bonds within a compound that is responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of that compound.

Conjugate Acid

The species formed when a base gains a proton (H+).

Conjugate Base

The species formed when an acid donates a proton (H+).

Acid-Base Neutralisation

The reaction between an acid and a base to form a salt and water.

Electrolysis

A process that uses electrical energy to induce a chemical reaction, typically to separate compounds.

Oxidation

The loss of electrons or an increase in oxidation state by a molecule, atom, or ion.

Reduction

The gain of electrons or a decrease in oxidation state by a molecule, atom, or ion.

Oxidising Agent

A substance that gains electrons in a chemical reaction, causing another substance to be oxidized.

Reducing Agent

A substance that loses electrons in a chemical reaction, causing another substance to be reduced.

Galvanic Cell

An electrochemical cell that generates electrical energy from spontaneous redox reactions.

Electrolytic Cell

An electrochemical cell that uses electrical energy to drive a non-spontaneous reaction.

Hydronium Ion

The ion H3O+, formed when an acid donates a proton to water.

pH Scale

A scale used to specify the acidity or basicity of an aqueous solution based on the concentration of hydronium ions.

Le Chatelier's Principle

A principle stating that if an external change is applied to a system at equilibrium, the system will shift in a direction to counteract the change.

Hydrolysis of Salts

The reaction of a salt with water, resulting in the formation of an acidic or basic solution.

Endothermic Reaction

A reaction that absorbs energy from its surroundings, usually in the form of heat.

Exothermic Reaction

A reaction that releases energy to its surroundings, usually in the form of heat.

Activation Energy

The minimum energy required for a chemical reaction to take place.

Collision Theory

A theory that states that for a reaction to occur, reactant particles must collide with sufficient energy and the correct orientation.