Physical Science Flashcards

Which of the following is an example of a physical property of matter?

Answer: Density

Density can be observed and measured without changing the substance's identity, making it a physical property.

What is the atomic number of an element?

Answer: The number of protons in the nucleus

The atomic number uniquely identifies an element and equals the number of protons in its nucleus.

A ball thrown horizontally off a cliff will land farther from the base if it is thrown:

Answer: With greater horizontal speed

Greater horizontal speed increases the horizontal distance traveled before gravity pulls the ball to the ground.

Which state of matter has a definite volume but no definite shape?

Answer: Liquid

A liquid has a definite volume but takes the shape of its container, distinguishing it from solids and gases.

A teacher uses a tuning fork and a glass of water to show that sound creates vibrations. This activity best demonstrates which concept?

Answer: Sound as a mechanical wave requiring particle vibration

The vibrating tuning fork disturbs the water surface, visibly demonstrating that sound is energy transferred through particle vibration.

What is the difference between an atom and a molecule?

Answer: An atom is the smallest unit of an element; a molecule is two or more atoms bonded together

An atom is the basic unit of an element, while a molecule consists of two or more atoms held together by chemical bonds.