Chemistry key terms

A scale in which equal steps represent multiplication by a constant factor rather than equal additions.

A pair of outer-shell electrons that is not shared in a covalent bond.

The energy level closest to the nucleus that is not already filled to the relevant capacity.

An ore containing only a small proportion of the desired metal or its compounds.

Land at a low height above sea level, making it particularly vulnerable to coastal flooding as sea level rises.

A material placed between surfaces to reduce friction as they move past one another.

Shiny, because the surface reflects light well; freshly cut or polished metals are lustrous.

A very large molecule, such as an individual polymer molecule.

The size range of objects that can normally be seen and handled directly, rather than individual atoms or molecules.

How many times larger a model is than the real object.

The ability of a material to be hammered, pressed or rolled into shape without breaking.

Able to be hammered or pressed into shape without breaking.

The stage in which raw or processed materials are converted into a finished product.

The hiding of one flame colour by another, usually stronger, flame colour.

A measure of the amount of matter in an object, normally measured in grams or kilograms using a balance.

The total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of one atom.

An analytical technique that produces a spectrum by detecting ions according to their mass-to-charge ratio.

A chart showing the mass-to-charge ratios of detected ions and their relative abundances.

The mass of an ion divided by the size of its charge; written as m/z.

A model that uses quantities and mathematical relationships to describe a system, solve problems or predict behaviour.

The material in a composite that surrounds and binds the reinforcement together.

A substance that has mass and occupies space; all matter is made from tiny particles ultimately built from atoms.

The greatest amount of product predicted from the balanced equation and the available limiting reactant.

The greatest mass of product predicted from the balanced equation when the relevant reactant is converted into product as specified by that equation.

A result obtained by adding the retained repeat measurements and dividing by the number of those measurements.

The change in a measured quantity divided by the time taken over a stated interval.

The quantity of reactant used or product formed during a time interval divided by the length of that interval.

The process of obtaining a value for a quantity by comparing it with an agreed scale or standard.

The unavoidable doubt about the value of a measurement; it describes an estimated interval within which the measured value may lie.

The change of state from a solid to a liquid.