Prior Knowledge Check: Intro to Matter

All matter is made from different types of _____, which are tiny building blocks that combine to form molecules of many different sizes.

Answer explanation

atoms are the building blocks of matter. Each atom has it's own identity and "personality", based on its elemental structure. When atoms are bound together, we call the bigger structure that is formed a "molecule".

A pure substance is a single kind of matter. A(n)________ is made up of two or more substances that are together in the same place, but each substance keeps its own properties.

Answer explanation

A "mixture" (as opposed to a "pure substance") is made up of two or more substances that hang out together in the same place, but their atoms are not chemically bonded together.

Water, air, buildings, food, and everything visible and invisible has mass and takes up space. What is the word used to describe anything that has mass and takes up space?

• atom

• molecule

• solid

• matter

Answer explanation

atoms & molecules are the building blocks of matter, and have distinct definitions of their own.

"solid" is one of the three states of matter that we will learn about! Anything that is solid will maintain its shape and density when not confined.

Which property would help to determine whether matter is a solid or a liquid?

• volume

• color

• shape

• mass

The difference between a physical change and a chemical change is that a chemical change makes a new substance. For example, when water freezes, it goes through a physical change, but it does not change into a different substance. Choose the three items that describe physical changes.

• rusting metal

• boiling water

• breaking ice

• carving a wooden statue

• baking a cake

Answer explanation

baking a cake and rusting metal are classified as "chemical changes", because one or more substances combine or break apart to form something new and different.

A single kind of matter that always has a specific makeup, or composition, is called a...

• pure substance

• mixture

Answer explanation

Look at the classification chart attached here. Notice that "mixtures" (like trail mix!) can be physically separated into their basic parts, while "pure substances" (like water!) can't be physically separated into their basic parts.

Water is made of the elements hydrogen + oxygen, chemically bound together to form an H20 molecule.

Matter comes in many shapes and forms. What are some ways that scientists might classify and describe these different types of matter?

Answer explanation

Physical & measurable properties (shape, texture, density, texture, etc.)

Ability to change shape or form

What is the name for something that is made of two or more atoms held together by chemical bonds?

What are the smaller parts that an atom is made of? Do your best to draw the structure of an atom.

Answer explanation

Atoms are made of tiny "subatomic" particles:

- protons (positive charge)

- electrons (negative charge)

- neutrons (neutral charge)

Protons and neutrons hang out together to form the "nucleus" of an atom, while electrons orbit around the nucleus.

Based on the information covered in this check-in, what is your best working definition of "matter"?