Physical Science Vocabulary

crest

• the top or extreme point of something

• a type of wave

• a decorative feather on a helmet

• a low point in a valley

magnetism

• the property of some objects (like magnets) to attract or repel other objects

• a force that only repels objects

• the ability of all materials to conduct electricity

• a phenomenon that occurs only in metals

gas

• state of matter distinguished from solid and liquid states

• a type of liquid that evaporates quickly

• a solid that can change shape

• a form of energy that can be harnessed

lever

• a rigid bar pivoted about a fulcrum

• a type of simple machine that uses friction

• a tool used for measuring weight

• a device that converts energy into motion

circuit

• an electrical device providing a path for current to flow

• a type of resistor used in electronics

• a closed loop that allows electricity to flow

• a device that stores electrical energy

enzyme

• a complex protein produced by cells that acts as a catalyst

• a type of carbohydrate that provides energy

• a lipid that stores energy in the body

• a nucleic acid that carries genetic information

compound

• a substance formed by chemical union of two or more elements

• a mixture of two or more substances

• a single element in its pure form

• a solution of two or more liquids

element

• a substance that cannot be separated into simpler substances

• a mixture of different substances

• a compound made of two or more elements

• a solution that can be separated by physical means

period

• the interval to complete one cycle of a repeating phenomenon

• a specific point in time

• a duration of time without any events

• a measurement of distance

matter

• that which has mass and occupies space

• a substance that can be seen but not touched

• anything that can be measured in terms of volume

• a physical object that cannot change form