GCSE Combined Science Flashcards

What is the equation for photosynthesis?

Answer: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂

The balanced equation for photosynthesis is: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ (using light energy). Plants use carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen.

What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis?

Answer: Mitosis produces 2 identical daughter cells (for growth/repair); meiosis produces 4 genetically unique gametes (for reproduction)

Mitosis produces 2 genetically identical diploid cells (same number of chromosomes as parent) for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction. Meiosis produces 4 genetically unique haploid cells (gametes) for sexual reproduction.

What is Newton's Second Law of Motion?

Answer: Force = mass × acceleration (F = ma)

Newton's Second Law states that the resultant force acting on an object equals its mass multiplied by its acceleration: F = ma. The greater the force or the smaller the mass, the greater the acceleration.

What is an ionic bond?

Answer: A bond formed by transferring electrons from a metal to a non-metal, creating oppositely charged ions

An ionic bond forms when a metal atom transfers electrons to a non-metal atom. This creates positive metal ions and negative non-metal ions, which are held together by electrostatic attraction.

What is the relationship between frequency, wavelength, and wave speed?

Answer: Speed = frequency × wavelength

Wave speed = frequency × wavelength (v = fλ). This applies to all waves — light, sound, and water waves. Rearranged: f = v/λ or λ = v/f.

What is the half-life of a radioactive substance?

Answer: The time for half of the radioactive nuclei in a sample to decay

Half-life is the time taken for half the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay. After one half-life, half remain; after two, a quarter remain; after three, an eighth, and so on.