AQA GCSE Combined Science: Synergy key terms

The difference between an object's starting and finishing heights, measured vertically rather than along its path.

A measure of a liquid's resistance to flowing; a more viscous liquid flows less easily.

The limited range of electromagnetic wavelengths that the human eye can detect.

The amount of space occupied by an object or substance.

Energy transferred in ways that do not serve the intended purpose. It still exists, but is often spread through the surroundings.

Energy transferred in ways that do not achieve a system’s intended purpose, often spreading into the surroundings by heating.

Water that has been used or contaminated by activities in homes, agriculture or industry and requires treatment before release into the environment.

The continuous movement of water between stores in the environment, involving changes of state.

A place where water is held, such as an ocean, glacier or aquifer.

Harmful effects on organisms caused by insufficient available water.

The unit of power. One watt is an energy transfer of one joule per second: $1\text{ W} = 1\text{ J/s}$.

A line joining points at the same stage of a wave's cycle, such as points along a crest. The direction of travel is perpendicular to it.

The distance between equivalent points on consecutive waves, measured in metres.

The speed at which energy is transferred, or the wave moves, through a medium, measured in metres per second and represented by $v$.

An acid that is only partially ionised in aqueous solution.

The short-term atmospheric conditions at a particular place and time.

The gravitational force acting on an object.

A cell involved in defending the body against disease, for example by engulfing pathogens or producing antibodies or antitoxins.

Energy transferred when a force moves an object or when charge flows through a potential difference. Work done is measured in joules.

Plant tissue containing hollow, lignin-strengthened vessels that transport water and dissolved mineral ions from roots towards leaves.

The amount of desired product obtained from a reaction.

A fertilised egg cell formed when male and female gametes join.