http://www.ck12.org Chapter 26. Glossary
26.19 S
salt
Ionic compound formed when an acid and base react.
saturated hydrocarbon
Hydrocarbon that contains only single bonds between carbon atoms.
saturated solution
Solution that contains as much solute as can dissolve at a given temperature.
scattering
Process in which transmitted light is spread out in all directions by particles of matter.
science
Way of learning about the natural world that is based on evidence and logic.
scientific law
Statement describing what always happens under certain conditions in nature.
scientific notation
Way of writing very large or very small numbers that uses exponents in the formata× 10 b.
scientific theory
Broad explanation that is widely accepted because it is supported by a great deal of evidence.
screw
Simple machine that consists of an inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder or cone.
semiconductor
Solid crystal—usually consisting mainly of silicon—that can conduct current better than an electric insulator
but not as well as an electric conductor; found in electronic components.
series circuit
Electric circuit that has only one loop through which current can flow.
SI
International System of Units, which is used by most scientists.
significant figures
Correct number of digits in an answer that is based on the least precise measurement used in the calculation.
solenoid
Coil of wire with electric current flowing through it, giving it a magnetic field like a bar magnet.
solid
State of matter that has a fixed volume and fixed shape.
solubility
Amount of solute that can dissolve in a given amount of solvent at a given temperature.
soluble
Able to dissolve in a given solvent.
solute
Substance that dissolves in a solvent to form a solution.
solution
Homogeneous mixture in which particles are too small to reflect light and too small to settle or be filtered out
of the mixture.
solvent
Substance that dissolves a solute to form a solution.
sonar
Sound navigation and ranging; use of reflected ultrasound waves to locate objects under water.
sound