Atoms & Molecules
What is an atom?
The smallest unit of an element that retains the properties of that element.
What is a solid?
A state of matter with a definite shape and volume, where particles are closely packed.
What is a model in science?
A representation of a concept or system that helps explain or predict phenomena.
What is a physical property?
A characteristic of a substance that can be observed or measured without changing its composition.
What happens when molecules collide?
They can exchange energy and may undergo a chemical change.
What is a simple molecule?
A group of two or more atoms bonded together, such as carbon dioxide (CO₂).
What is an extended structure?
A structure made of repeating units of atoms or molecules, such as crystals.
Why do scientists use models?
To visualize and understand complex structures that are not easily observable.
How do you measure mass?
By using a balance scale to compare it to a known mass.
How do molecules in a gas behave?
They move freely and quickly, filling the entire volume of their container.
Name a common example of a molecule
Water (H₂O) or carbon dioxide (CO₂).
Give an example of a crystal
Sodium chloride (table salt) or quartz.
Name a type of model used to represent molecules.
3-D models or computer simulations.
What is density?
The mass per unit volume of a substance, calculated as density = mass/volume.
What is a chemical change?
A process where substances transform into different substances with new properties.
How many atoms are in a water molecule?
Three atoms (two hydrogen and one oxygen)
What is the difference between a molecule and an extended structure?
A molecule is a distinct group of atoms, while an extended structure consists of a regular arrangement of repeating units.
How can a 3-D model help us understand matter?
It provides a visual representation of the arrangement and interaction of atoms in a molecule.
How does the arrangement of atoms affect a solid's properties?
The arrangement determines how tightly atoms are packed and influences hardness, melting point, and other characteristics.
Describe an example of a physical change.
Melting ice or tearing paper.
Describe how atoms bond to form molecules
Atoms bond by sharing or transferring electrons to achieve stability.
How can diamonds be classified in terms of structure?
Diamonds are classified as an extended structure made of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice.
Describe how computer models can be used in science.
Computer models simulate molecular interactions and predict behaviors based on different variables.
Explain how temperature can affect the state of matter.
Increasing temperature can cause solids to melt into liquids or liquids to evaporate into gases.
How do scientists use data to understand matter?
They analyze data from experiments to draw conclusions about the properties and behaviors of substances.