Key terms & definitions

Information collected before an action, which provides a starting point against which later results can be compared.

An initial measurement used as a starting point for later comparisons.

A background map showing locations and reference features onto which other geographical information can be added.

The tallest peak in a mass spectrum, assigned a relative abundance of 100.

The reference period whose value is assigned an index of 100 in a fixed-base index series.

A fundamental SI unit from which other units can be formed.

The reference year against which other years are compared; its index number is 100.

The constitution adopted by West Germany in 1949, establishing a democratic, federal political system.

A skill that is quickly learned because very few decisions are needed when performing it.

The common basis on which products are compared, such as one bag, one use or the entire working life of an appliance.

Spooning hot cooking fat or juices over food during roasting.

A fortified stone farmhouse in the English–Scottish borderlands, with livestock sheltered below and living accommodation above.

Literally ‘daughter of worth’: a coming-of-age celebration used in some Orthodox communities to recognise a girl’s religious maturity, usually at 12.

Manufacture in which a fixed quantity of product is made at one time before the equipment is prepared for another run.

Making a group of identical or similar products before switching to another batch.

The manufacture of a set quantity of identical products before equipment is changed or reset for another batch.

A wheeled changing hut moved towards or into the sea so that bathers could enter the water with greater privacy.

An abrupt descent from an elevated or serious tone to something ordinary or potentially ridiculous.

A map showing the depth and shape of the seabed.

A textile decoration process in which wax prevents dye reaching selected areas of fabric, creating a pattern.

‘Daughter of the commandments’: the status of a Jewish girl who becomes responsible for observing Jewish religious law, traditionally at 12, also used for the ceremony celebrating this.

A thick, evenly cut stick of fruit or vegetable.

A pourable mixture usually made from flour, eggs and a liquid such as milk, used for foods including Yorkshire puddings.

Two or more cells connected together, normally in series to provide a greater total voltage.

Two or more cells connected together, shown by repeated long–short line pairs.

Two or more cells connected together to provide a source of potential difference.

An electrochemical power source that transfers energy from a chemical store to an electrical circuit.

The amount of electric charge a battery can deliver under specified conditions; it helps determine how long the battery can power a device.

The alternating raised sections and gaps along the top of a wall, associated with defence and the appearance of a castle.

The decisive naval battle fought off western Greece on 2 September 31 BCE, in which Octavian’s forces, with their fleet commanded by Agrippa, defeated Antony and Cleopatra.