Chemical Substances and Properties

(chemistry) a substance that causes a chemical reaction to happen at a faster rate without undergoing any chemical change itself

Enzymes are naturally occurring biological catalysts that allow complex metabolic reactions to proceed efficiently in living cells.

someone who is deeply interested in and well-informed about a particular topic

She's a real history buff and can recite dates from memory.

a substance that takes part in and undergoes a chemical reaction, leading to the formation of new products

In photosynthesis, carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) are the reactants that, in the presence of sunlight, produce glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂).

a substance or compound used in a chemical reaction to detect, examine, or produce other substances

The chemist carefully measured the reagent before adding it to the reaction flask.

any of the elements in Group 18 of the periodic table, including helium, neon, argon, krypton, xenon, and radon, characterized by their inert nature and stable electron configurations

Helium, a noble gas, is known for its low density and is often used in balloons to make them float.

a group of non-reactive gases that typically exhibit low chemical reactivity due to their stable electron configurations

Inert gases like helium and argon are commonly used in welding to shield the molten metal from reacting with oxygen in the air.

a type of chemical element found in Group 17 of the periodic table, known for being highly reactive and commonly used in disinfectants and lights

Chlorine is a halogen commonly used in water treatment for its disinfectant properties.

a durable plastic material used for packaging, bags, and various applications

Supermarket shopping bags are often made of polythene material.

a lightweight and versatile synthetic polymer used in packaging, insulation, and disposable products

The food industry favors polystyrene containers for their excellent insulation and cost-effectiveness.

referring to the essential chemical element phosphorus, which is vital in biological processes and various industrial applications

Plants require phosphorous for healthy growth and development.

a colorless, volatile liquid solvent commonly used for removing nail polish and other substances from surfaces

a naturally occurring polysaccharide derived from brown seaweed, commonly used in various industries for its thickening, gelling, and stabilizing properties

a compound containing silicon and oxygen atoms, often forming minerals or glasses, with diverse applications in industry and nature

Quartz is a common silicate mineral found in many types of rocks.

a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a two-dimensional honeycomb lattice, known for its exceptional strength, electrical conductivity, and flexibility

a naturally occurring organic compound found in many fruits that contributes to their sour taste

a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and limes, commonly used as a food additive for flavoring and preserving

Lemon juice contains citric acid, giving it its characteristic tart flavor.

a chemical compound that contains phosphorus and oxygen atoms, commonly found in salts or esters of phosphoric acid, important for biological processes and industrial applications

Plants absorb phosphates from the soil to promote healthy root development and flower formation.

a type of elementary particle that is one of the six types, or flavors, of quarks that has an electric charge of +2/3 and participates in strong and electromagnetic interactions

Physicists at the Large Hadron Collider study collisions to observe the behavior of charm quarks in high-energy experiments.

something that has specific chemicals or causes a chemical reaction that destroys harmful microorganisms such as bacteria

a chemical compound important for regulating pH balance, found in baking soda and crucial for bodily functions

Baking soda contains bicarbonate, which helps baked goods rise when mixed with acidic ingredients.

a substance that is dissolved in a solvent, resulting in a solution

In saltwater, salt (NaCl) is the solute that dissolves in water, the solvent.

to pour or to put a significant amount of something into a place or thing to the point of not being able to add anymore

After the rain, the soil became saturated with water, making it difficult for additional rainfall to be absorbed.

extremely delicate, light, as if it belongs to a heavenly realm

The ethereal music of the flute floated through the room, creating a sense of calm.

describing chemical compounds that do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds and are typically derived from minerals or non-living matter

Sodium chloride (table salt) is an inorganic compound widely used in cooking and food preservation.

a liquid that is capable of dissolving another substance

Ethanol is commonly used as a solvent to dissolve oils and perfume essences for the production of aftershaves and colognes.

refering to substances that have a pH greater than 7, indicating a basic or non-acidic nature

Soap is often alkaline, making it effective for cleaning grease and oils.

an isotonic solution of sodium chloride and distilled water