Chemistry key terms

A substance containing a very large, continuous network of atoms joined by covalent bonds.

A regular, repeating giant structure made from positive and negative ions.

A regular, repeating three-dimensional arrangement of particles extending throughout a solid.

A very large, repeating arrangement of particles joined by bonding throughout the structure rather than separated into individual molecules.

A reduction in the amount of radiation reaching Earth's surface because particulates in the atmosphere block or scatter some of it.

The increase in Earth's average surface temperature over a long period.

A wooden splint whose flame has been blown out but whose hot tip continues to glow.

A sugar made during photosynthesis, in which some of the absorbed light energy is stored chemically.

The change in the vertical-axis value divided by the change in the horizontal-axis value.

A visual representation used to display data or the relationship between variables.

A single, one-atom-thick layer of graphite in which carbon atoms form a sheet of hexagonal rings.

The natural process in which atmospheric greenhouse gases reduce the rate at which energy escapes to space, maintaining Earth at a temperature high enough to support life.

A gas that absorbs infrared radiation emitted by Earth and transfers energy to the surroundings, warming the atmosphere.

A vertical column of elements in the periodic table.

A vertical column containing elements whose atoms have full outer electron shells.

The metals in the first column of the Periodic Table, whose atoms each have one electron in their outer shell.

An element in the first column of the periodic table; the Group 1 elements are also called the alkali metals.

An industrial process in which nitrogen and hydrogen react under controlled conditions to manufacture ammonia.

The place and conditions in which an organism lives and obtains the resources it needs.

The protein in red blood cells that binds oxygen in the lungs and transports it around the body.

An equation showing the reaction at one electrode, including the electrons transferred.

A compound containing a halogen combined with another element; examples include sodium chloride and potassium bromide.

A negatively charged ion formed when a halogen atom gains one electron, such as $Cl^-$ or $Br^-$; the name is also used when naming compounds containing these ions.

A Group 7 element, such as chlorine or bromine, which can react with a metal to form a salt.

The ability of a material to resist scratching, cutting or indentation.

Something with the potential to cause harm, such as a corrosive chemical, a flame, hot glassware or a sharp edge.

A symbol on a chemical label that warns that the contents may harm people or the environment.

A graph showing how the temperature of a substance changes as it is heated.

A protective surface placed beneath heating apparatus to shield the bench from heat.

Able to withstand relatively high temperatures without losing the properties needed for its use.