Study Notes
Physical properties are characteristics of matter that can be observed without changing the substance's structure. They are used to observe and describe matter.
- Solution — a homogenous mixture of two or more substances. Example: Salt dissolved in water forms a solution.
- Concentration — the quantity of solute dissolved in a certain quantity of solvent. Example: Vinegar is a dilute solution of ethanoic acid in water.
- Purity — a pure substance cannot be broken down into simpler matter using physical methods. Example: Distilled water is a pure substance.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Solution: A homogenous mixture of two or more substances.
- Concentration: The amount of solute dissolved in a solvent.
- Purity: A substance that cannot be broken down into simpler matter using physical methods.
Common Confusions
- Confusing saturated and unsaturated solutions.
- Misunderstanding the difference between concentrated and dilute solutions.
Typical Exam Questions
- What is a solution? A homogenous mixture of two or more substances.
- How can you tell if a substance is pure using chromatography? A pure substance will show only one spot on the chromatogram.
- What happens in a saturated solution? No more solute can dissolve at a certain temperature.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of how solutions are formed and their properties.
- Ability to differentiate between pure substances and mixtures.
- Knowledge of how paper chromatography separates substances.