Chemistry

12. Using chemistry words and terms correctly

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In chemistry, we use some ordinary words in a very precise way. This means that chemists have to be particularly careful with words like, for example:

addition -
(1) Refers to addition reaction or addition transformation; (2) Loosely, the formation of an adduct. (For an example, see Lewis acid); (3) Loosely, any association or attachment.

base -
substance which gives off hydroxide ions (OH-) in solution.

compound -
a substance formed by the reaction of two or more chemical elements. The elements in a compound are present in fixed ratios. Compounds can be decomposed chemically into their constituent elements.

radical -
an atom or group of atoms that contains one or more unpaired electrons (usually very reactive species)

scuff - in flat panel display substrates, the marring of the glass substrate surface, leaving a milky white, grayish, or matte appearance and having appreciable width. [SEMI D9-94]

strain -
strain is present in a molecular entity or transition structure if the energy is enhanced because of unfavourable bond lengths, bond angles, or dihedral angles ("torsional strain") relative to a standard.


These words, and many more, have a very precise meaning and cannot be used in a chemistry essay without a great deal of thought. The best way to avoid using a chemical word wrongly is to look it up in a reputable chemical dictionary. Here is a link:
http://www.chemicool.com/dictionary.html.


Acknowledgement: all definitions taken from
http://www.chemicool.com/dictionary.html.

TaskTask TypeDifficulty
Task 1Multiple choiceEasier
Task 2Multiple choiceEasier
Task 3Multiple choiceMore Challenging
Task 4Multiple choiceMore Challenging
Task 5Multiple choiceModerate
Task 6Multiple choiceModerate
Task 7Multiple choiceMore Challenging
Task 8Multiple choiceModerate