Chemistry Exam Notes

What are Protons?

Positively charged particles in the nucleus of an atom

What are Neutrons?

Neutral particles in the nucleus of an atom

What are Electrons?

Negatively charged particles surrounding the nucleus in electron shells

What is the Atomic Number?

The number of protons in an atom, determining the element's identity

What are Ions?

Charged atoms formed by the gain or loss of electrons

What are Anions?

Ions formed by electron gain (negative charge)

What are Cations?

Ions formed by electron loss (positive charge)

What is Ionic Bonding?

Electrostatic attraction between ions (metal + non-metal)

What is Synthesis?

A chemical reaction where two or more substances combine to form a single product (A + B → AB)

What is Decomposition?

A chemical reaction where a single compound breaks down into two or more products (AB → A + B)

What is Combustion?

A chemical reaction involving rapid reaction between a substance with an oxidant, usually oxygen, to produce heat and light

What is Neutralization?

A chemical reaction between an acid and a base to form salt and water

What is Precipitation?

A chemical reaction where two aqueous solutions react to form a solid (precipitate)

What are Factors Affecting Reaction Rate?

Factors that affect how quickly a chemical reaction occurs

What are Catalysts?

Substances that increase the rate of a chemical reaction by lowering the activation energy

What are Alkali Metals?

Reactive metals with low melting points that form +1 ions

What are Alkaline Earth Metals?

Reactive metals with higher melting points than alkali metals that form +2 ions

What are Transition Metals?

Good conductors with high melting points, capable of forming multiple ions and acting as catalysts

What is the Mass Number?

The number of protons plus neutrons in an atom's nucleus

What is Conservation of Mass?

The principle that mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction