The Physical Properties of Matter

What is a physical property of matter? A property that can be observed or measured without changing the identity of that matter Ex: Color, odor, shape, size, etc.

Thermal Conductivity Definition: The ability to transfer thermal energy (heat) to something else Example: Coffee in a special cup to prevent heat transfer to our hands

State The form in which matter exists: solid, liquid, gas. Definition: Example: Ice = Solid Water = Liquid Helium = Gas

The ability to be pounded into thin sheets Malleability Definition: The ability to be pounded into thin sheets Example: Aluminum can be pounded flat to make aluminum foil

Ductility The ability to be drawn into thin wires Definition: The ability to be drawn into thin wires Example: Copper is used to make wires

Solubility Definition: The ability for one substance to dissolve into another substance Example: Alka-seltzer dissolves in water or sugar dissolves in coffee

Density Mass per unit volume Definition: Mass per unit volume Example: Lead is used for fishing weights because it is more dense than water

More information about density... Density = The amount of matter in a given space or volume Density = m Mass v Volume

More information about density... Most substances have a unique density: Water = 1.00 g/mL Gold = 19.32 g/mL (See page 13 in your book for a bigger list) Density < 1 - The object will float in water Density > 1 – The object will sink in water

The Magic Triangle m D V Answers are expressed in g/cm3 or g/mL