Chapter 1: The Chemical World

Question 1

Define chemistry

Answer 1

The branch of science that studies the structure, composition, properties and the reactive characteristics of matter

Question 2

Define matter

Answer 2

Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space

Question 3

describe an atom

Answer 3

Atoms are made up of neutrons, protons and electrons. And other subatomic particles

Question 4

Describe an element

Answer 4

Different types of atoms that contain a different number of protons.

Question 5

Describe an isotope

Answer 5

Elements that have different number of neutrons in the nucleus

Question 6

Explain the difference between qualitative observations and quantitative observations

Answer 6

Qualitative observations record attributes and properties. Quantitative observations record numbers

Question 7

Describe the meaning of formulating a hypothesis.

Answer 7

Formulating a hypothesis is the start to preforming an investigation explaining observations made. A hypothesis is a possible explanation for observations made.

Question 8

Describe how the process of scientific inquiry, called the scientific method, proceeds from an observation to a conclusion.

Answer 8

After making observations. One creates a hypothesis and carries out experiments testing the hypothesis. After gathering evidence, a scientist ends with a conclusion supporting or denying the hypothesis. If the hypothesis is wrong, then the process starts over with new observations.

Question 9

Describe the difference between a hypothesis and a theory in scientific terms.

Answer 9

A hypothesis is a possible explanation for observations made. A theory is an explanation why nature behaves as it does.

Question 10

Describe the difference between a theory and a scientific law.

Answer 10

A scientific law states what happens. A theory attempts to explain why things happen.