Grade 5 Science: Matter, Physical Properties, Scientific Investigations, and Phase Changes

Vocabulary flashcards reviewing properties of matter, atomic structure, experimental variables, mixtures, solutions, and phases of matter based on class lecture notes.

Quantitative Data

Measurable results expressed as numbers, collected using instruments such as rulers, balances, graduated cylinders, beakers, and thermometers.

Qualitative Data

Observational results gathered by using the senses to observe the outcome of an experiment.

Compound

A substance consisting of two or more elements chemically bonded together in a fixed ratio.

Independent Variable

Also called the manipulated variable; it is the specific condition or factor in an experiment that is changed by the experimenter.

Dependent Variable

Also called the responding variable; it is the measurable or describable result produced in response to the change made in an experiment.

Constants

The variables or parts of an experiment that are kept exactly the same across all set ups.

Control Group

A separate set up in an experiment where no changes are made, allowing for comparison against experimental setups.

High Density

A state where particles are packed tightly together with little space between them, causing objects (like an iron nail) to sink easily.

Low Density

A state where particles are loosely packed together with more space between them, allowing objects (like wood) to float easily.

Solid

A state of matter containing particles that have a definite shape and a definite volume.

Liquid

A state of matter containing particles that have a definite volume but no definite shape.

Gas

A state of matter containing particles that have no definite shape and no definite volume.

Homogeneous Mixture

Another name for a solution, in which the dissolved particles are evenly distributed throughout.

Heterogeneous Mixture

Another name for a regular mixture, in which individual substances are combined without dissolving and can be easily separated.

Gaining Heat Energy

Occurs when thermal energy is added to matter, causing its particles to speed up and move further apart.

Losing Heat Energy

Occurs when thermal energy is removed from matter, causing its particles to slow down and move closer together.

Water ($H_2O$)

A common chemical compound made of hydrogen and oxygen atoms chemically combined in a $2:1$ ratio.

Carbon Dioxide ($CO_2$)

A common chemical compound composed of carbon and oxygen atoms chemically bonded together.