Matter can be defined as anything that has mass and takes
up space (volume). Mass is the amount of MATTER in an
object. Volume is the amount of space that the MATTER in an
object takes up.
Matter can exist in 4 forms (also called states): 1. solid - has definite shape and volume. Example: ice,
salt, wood.
2. liquid - has definite volume but no definite shape.
Example: water, milk, mercury.
3. gas - has no definite volume or shape. Example: air,
water vapor, CO2.
4. plasma - the state of matter that exists at high
temperatures, it consists of electrically charged
particles. Example: sun, nuclear fusion.
Physical property are the qualities and characteristics
of matter used to describe it but do not produce a new
substance.
Examples of Physical Properties include:
Color – every object has a color
Odor – intensity of smell
Texture - the feel it has
Density – The amount of mass in a given volume.
Calculated mass divided by volume.
Luster – how shiny or dull it is when reflecting light
Ductility – ability to be drawn into thin wires
Malleability – ability to be beaten into thin sheets
Elasticity – ability to return to original shape
Viscosity - the resistance of a liquid to flow
Hardness – ability to be scratched or resist being
scratched
Conductivity – allows energy to flow through it,
electricity or heat
Insulator – resists flow of energy, electricity or heat
Change Points – Melting Point, Boiling Point,
Condensation Point, and Freezing Point
Chemical properties involve changes (or attempted changes)
of matter to produce a new substance that can not easily
be changed back. It can be typically described by the
following:
Color – change in color indicates a chemical change
Temperature – change in temperature indicates a
chemical change.