Chemistry: The Central Science - Chapter 1 & 2 Overview

This set contains vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts from the Chemistry: The Central Science lecture notes, covering dimensional analysis, atomic theory, laws of composition, and subatomic particles.

Dimensional Analysis

A mathematical technique used to change units by applying conversion factors.

Conversion Factor

A fraction that represents the relationship between two different units; for example, 1 inch = 2.54 centimeters.

Law of Constant Composition

A principle stating that a compound has a definite composition, meaning the relative number of atoms of each element in the compound is the same in any sample.

Law of Conservation of Mass

A law stating that mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction; the total mass of substances is the same before and after a reaction.

Law of Multiple Proportions

A law stating that when two elements form more than one compound, the masses of one element that combine with a fixed mass of another element are in the ratio of small whole numbers.

Atomic Theory of Matter

A theory originally proposed by John Dalton, which includes several postulates about the nature of atoms.

Electron

A negatively charged subatomic particle discovered by J.J. Thomson.

Radioactivity

The spontaneous emission of high-energy radiation from an unstable atom.

Nucleus

The small, dense center of an atom, containing protons and neutrons.

Proton

A positively charged subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

Neutron

A neutral subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

Cathode Rays

Streams of negatively charged particles observed in cathode tubes, leading to the discovery of the electron.