PSSA Physical Science Flashcards
6 cards from real PSSA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 PSSA Physical Science flashcards as text
What is an atom?
Answer: The smallest unit of an element that retains the chemical properties of that element
An atom is the smallest unit of an element that retains the chemical properties of that element, consisting of protons, neutrons, and electrons.
What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength for waves traveling at the same speed?
Answer: Higher frequency means shorter wavelength
For waves traveling at the same speed, higher frequency corresponds to shorter wavelength (speed = frequency × wavelength).
Which force keeps planets in orbit around the Sun?
Answer: Gravity
Gravity is the attractive force between objects with mass that keeps planets in their elliptical orbits around the Sun.
What is an acid-base reaction commonly called?
Answer: Neutralization
An acid-base reaction is called a neutralization reaction because the acid and base cancel each other out, often forming water and a salt.
What is the difference between reflection and refraction of light?
Answer: Reflection is the bouncing of light off a surface; refraction is the bending of light as it passes between media
Reflection occurs when light bounces off a surface, while refraction is the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another.
Which subatomic particle determines the identity of an element?
Answer: Proton
The number of protons in an atom's nucleus (the atomic number) determines which element it is.