Properties of Matter and Their Measurement
Understanding matter is fundamental to chemistry. Every substance has specific properties, which can be classified into two categories:
- Physical properties - These are observable without changing the substance's identity, including color, boiling point, and melting point.
- Chemical properties - These involve the composition and behavior of a substance during a chemical reaction, such as acidity or reactivity.
Measurement is crucial in chemistry, as it provides quantitative data necessary for experimental analysis. The SI (International System of Units) establishes a standardized system for measurement, offering seven base units including the meter (length), kilogram (mass), second (time), and mole (amount of substance).
Additionally, the concepts of mass vs. weight, volume, density, and uncertainty in measurement are discussed. Understanding how to accurately measure and describe these properties is essential for scientists to conduct precise experiments and validate outcomes.