Phys Ch 2 Vocab Flashcards
Metabolism
the sum of all chemical reactions
Elements
unique substances that cannot be broken down into simpler substances
Matter
the “stuff” of the universe; occupies space and mass
Mass
the amount of matter
Molecule
when two or more elements combine chemically
Compound
when two or more different elements combine
Chemical Reaction
process in which molecules are formed, changed, or broken down
Anabolism
the combining of similar substances to form more complex substances
Catabolism
the breaking down of substances into similar substances by living cells; destructive metabolism
Catalyst
a substance that increases the rate of reaction
Valance (shell)
the outermost energy level of an atom
Orbital
Covalent Bond
molecules that share atoms
pH Scale
the level of hydrogen ion concentration
Hydroxide