Fundamentals of Chemistry

These flashcards cover key concepts in chemistry, including fundamental definitions, chemical reactions, bonds, properties of water, and pH.

Why Study Chemistry?

Chemistry is essential in fields such as Medicine, Biology, Food Science, Agriculture, Toxicology, Biochemistry, and many more.

Atom

The smallest unit of matter, consisting of three particles: electrons, neutrons, and protons.

Element

A substance that cannot be broken down into other substances, identified by its atomic number.

Atomic Number

The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, defining the element.

Atomic Mass

The sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom.

Isotope

Atoms of the same element that have different atomic masses due to differing numbers of neutrons.

Octet Rule

An atom is most stable when its outermost electron shell is full, typically holding 8 electrons.

Chemical Reaction

A process involving the loss, sharing, or gain of valence electrons leading to the formation of chemical bonds.

Ionic Bond

An electrical attraction between oppositely charged ions, formed when valence electrons are lost or gained.

Covalent Bond

A bond formed by the sharing of valence electrons between atoms.

Electronegativity

The attractive force that an atomic nucleus exerts on electrons; it contributes to bond polarity.

Hydrogen Bond

An electrostatic interaction between polar molecules, important in biological structures.

Properties of Water

Key properties include high heat capacity, high heat of vaporization, being a universal solvent, and exhibiting cohesion and adhesion.

pH Scale

A measure of the H+ concentration of a solution; acidic (

Acid

A substance that increases H+ concentration in a solution.

Base

A substance that decreases H+ concentration or adds OH- to a solution.

Carbonic Acid/Bicarbonate Buffer

A component of blood pH regulation, where carbon dioxide reacts with water to form carbonic acid.