http://www.ck12.org Chapter 2. Matter and Change
2.1 Properties of Matter
Lesson Objectives
- Describe a substance according to its physical properties.
- Distinguish between extensive and intensive properties.
- Describe the three states of matter.
- Identify physical changes to matter.
Lesson Vocabulary
- extensive property
- gas
- intensive property
- liquid
- mass
- physical change
- physical property
- pure substance
- solid
- vapor
- volume
Check Your Understanding
Recalling Prior Knowledge
- What are some physical properties that can be used to describe matter?
- What are the three states of matter? Describe their similarities and differences.
The science of chemistry is largely concerned with the understanding and classification of matter. This understanding
naturally begins with careful observations. What does a particular sample of matter look like? Is it a solid, liquid, or
gas? Is it hard or soft? Is it shiny or dull? These types of questions are where we will begin our study of matter and
its properties.
If you would like to refresh your memory about states of matter, go to “The Phantom’s Portrait Parlor: Phases of
Matter” at http://www.miamisci.org/af/sln/phases/watersolid.html and view solids, liquids, and gases at the molecular
level.