Chemistry vocabulary list with definitions

The world of chemistry can seem intimidating at first, filled with cryptic symbols and unfamiliar terms. But fear not, fellow science enthusiasts! This blog is your key to unlocking the language of chemistry, transforming those confusing terms into tools for understanding the fascinating world around you.

Chemistry: A science that deals with the composition, structure, and properties of substances and with the transformations that they undergo

Chemistry vocabulary with definitions and meaning

Abiosis

Definition: The absence of life.
Example: The study of abiosis helps understand environments where life cannot exist.

Acid

Definition: A substance that donates hydrogen ions and has a pH less than 7.
Example: Hydrochloric acid is commonly used in laboratories.

Acidic

Definition: Having the properties of an acid; having a pH less than 7.
Example: Lemon juice is acidic due to its citric acid content.

Affect

Definition: To influence or make a change in.
Example: Temperature can affect the rate of a chemical reaction.

Alchemist

Definition: A person who practices alchemy, an ancient form of chemistry concerned with transforming matter.
Example: Medieval alchemists tried to turn base metals into gold.

Alkaline

Definition: Having the properties of a base; having a pH greater than 7.
Example: Baking soda is an alkaline substance.

Alteration

Definition: The act or process of changing or modifying.
Example: Chemical alteration can change the properties of a substance.

Amphoteric

Definition: A substance that can act as both an acid and a base.
Example: Water is an amphoteric compound.

Analysis

Definition: The process of examining the components of a substance.
Example: Chemical analysis can determine the composition of a sample.

Anomaly

Definition: A deviation from what is normal or expected.
Example: An anomaly in the experiment’s results indicated a possible error.

Antigen

Definition: A substance that triggers an immune response.
Example: Vaccines introduce an antigen to stimulate immunity.

Apparatus

Definition: Equipment or tools used for scientific experiments.
Example: The chemistry lab is equipped with various apparatus for experiments.

Application

Definition: The practical use of scientific knowledge.
Example: The application of chemistry in medicine has led to the development of life-saving drugs.

Arrangement

Definition: The way in which things are organized or positioned.
Example: The arrangement of atoms in a molecule determines its properties.

Astatine

Definition: A rare radioactive element with the symbol At and atomic number 85.
Example: Astatine is used in some types of radiation therapy.

Atomic

Definition: Relating to atoms.
Example: Atomic structure determines the behavior of elements.

Atrophy

Definition: The reduction in size or wasting away of an organ or tissue.
Example: Muscle atrophy can occur if a limb is immobilized for a long period.

Balance

Definition: A device used for measuring mass.
Example: A balance is used to weigh chemicals accurately.

Base

Definition: A substance that accepts hydrogen ions and has a pH greater than 7.
Example: Sodium hydroxide is a common base.

Benzene

Definition: A volatile aromatic hydrocarbon with the formula C6H6.
Example: Benzene is used as a starting material in the synthesis of many chemicals.

Bond

Definition: The force that holds atoms together in a molecule.
Example: A covalent bond involves the sharing of electron pairs between atoms.

Bonding

Definition: The process of forming bonds between atoms.
Example: Bonding determines the structure and properties of molecules.

Bromine

Definition: A halogen element with the symbol Br and atomic number 35.
Example: Bromine is used in flame retardants.

Burning

Definition: A chemical reaction that involves the rapid oxidation of a substance.
Example: Burning wood releases heat and light.

Carbon

Definition: A nonmetallic element with the symbol C and atomic number 6, essential to life.
Example: Carbon forms the backbone of organic molecules.

Carcinogen

Definition: A substance capable of causing cancer.
Example: Asbestos is a known carcinogen.

Catalyst

Definition: A substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed.
Example: Enzymes act as catalysts in biological processes.

Cell

Definition: The basic unit of life in biological organisms.
Example: Cells are studied in biochemistry to understand their functions.

Centigrade

Definition: A scale for measuring temperature, also known as Celsius.
Example: Water boils at 100 degrees centigrade.

Chain

Definition: A series of linked atoms or molecules.
Example: Polymer chains consist of repeating units.

Change

Definition: The act or process of becoming different.
Example: Chemical change involves the transformation of substances.

Charge

Definition: The property of matter that causes it to experience a force when placed in an electric or magnetic field.
Example: Electrons carry a negative charge.

Chemical

Definition: A substance with a distinct molecular composition.
Example: Water is a chemical compound composed of hydrogen and oxygen.

Chlorine

Definition: A greenish-yellow halogen element with the symbol Cl and atomic number 17.
Example: Chlorine is used to disinfect swimming pools.

Colloid

Definition: A mixture where one substance is dispersed evenly throughout another.
Example: Milk is a colloid of fat droplets in water.

Combination

Definition: The act of combining two or more substances.
Example: The combination of hydrogen and oxygen forms water.

Composition

Definition: The nature of something’s ingredients or constituents.
Example: The composition of a compound determines its properties.

Compound

Definition: A substance made of two or more elements chemically bonded together.
Example: Sodium chloride is a compound of sodium and chlorine.

Concentration

Definition: The amount of a substance in a given volume.
Example: The concentration of salt in seawater is high.

Conclusion

Definition: The final part of something, especially a summary of results.
Example: The conclusion of the experiment confirmed the hypothesis.

Consumption

Definition: The act of using up a resource.
Example: The consumption of fuel releases energy.

Crystal

Definition: A solid material with a regular, repeating arrangement of atoms.
Example: Salt forms crystals when it solidifies.

Current

Definition: A flow of electric charge.
Example: Electrical current powers electronic devices.

Data

Definition: Facts and statistics collected for analysis.
Example: Data from the experiment was used to draw conclusions.

Decomposition

Definition: The process of breaking down a compound into simpler substances.
Example: The decomposition of organic matter produces carbon dioxide.

Desalination

Definition: The process of removing salt from seawater.
Example: Desalination provides fresh water in arid regions.

Desiccant

Definition: A substance that absorbs moisture.
Example: Silica gel is used as a desiccant to keep products dry.

Determination

Definition: The process of measuring or finding out something.
Example: The determination of pH is essential in chemistry.

Detritus

Definition: Waste or debris of any kind.
Example: Chemical reactions often produce detritus that needs to be disposed of.

Discovery

Definition: The act of finding something new.
Example: The discovery of penicillin revolutionized medicine.

Display

Definition: To show or exhibit.
Example: The results of the experiment were displayed on a graph.

Distillation

Definition: The process of purifying a liquid by heating and cooling.
Example: Distillation is used to produce distilled water.

Duality

Definition: The quality or condition of having two parts.
Example: Light exhibits wave-particle duality.

Dynamic

Definition: Characterized by constant change or activity.
Example: Chemical reactions are dynamic processes.

Efflorescence

Definition: The migration of a salt to the surface of a porous material, forming a coating.
Example: Efflorescence is often seen on the surface of bricks and concrete.

Electrical

Definition: Relating to electricity.
Example: Electrical conductivity is a property of metals.

Electrolysis

Definition: The process of using electricity to cause a chemical change.
Example: Electrolysis is used to extract metals from their ores.

Electron

Definition: A subatomic particle with a negative charge.
Example: Electrons orbit the nucleus of an atom.

Element

Definition: A substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances.
Example: Gold is an element with the symbol Au.

Enzyme

Definition: A protein that acts as a catalyst in biochemical reactions.
Example: Enzymes speed up metabolic processes in the body.

Equilibrium

Definition: A state in which opposing forces or influences are balanced.
Example: Chemical equilibrium occurs when the rate of the forward reaction equals the rate of the reverse reaction.

Ester

Definition: An organic compound made by replacing the hydrogen of an acid with an alkyl or other organic group.
Example: Esters are responsible for the fragrance of many fruits.

Examination

Definition: The process of inspecting or testing something.
Example: The examination of the sample revealed its chemical composition.

Ferment

Definition: The process of converting carbohydrates to alcohol or organic acids using microorganisms.
Example: Yeast is used to ferment sugars in the production of beer.

Fission

Definition: The splitting of an atomic nucleus to release energy.
Example: Nuclear fission is the principle behind atomic bombs and nuclear reactors.

Fluid

Definition: A substance that flows and takes the shape of its container.
Example: Water is a fluid that is essential for life.

Fluorine

Definition: A highly reactive halogen element with the symbol F and atomic number 9.
Example: Fluorine is used in the production of Teflon.

Formula

Definition: A set of chemical symbols showing the elements in a compound and their proportions.
Example: The chemical formula for water is H2O.

Fractionation

Definition: The process of separating a mixture into its component parts.
Example: Fractionation is used in the petroleum industry to separate crude oil.

Fuel

Definition: A material that is burned to produce heat or power.
Example: Gasoline is a common fuel for cars.

Gas

Definition: A state of matter with no fixed shape or volume.
Example: Oxygen is a gas that is essential for respiration.

Halogen

Definition: A group of elements including fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine.
Example: Halogens are highly reactive nonmetals.

Heat

Definition: The transfer of thermal energy.
Example: Heat is required to initiate many chemical reactions.

Helium

Definition: A noble gas element with the symbol He and atomic number 2.
Example: Helium is used to fill balloons because it is lighter than air.

Hydrocarbon

Definition: An organic compound consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon.
Example: Methane is a simple hydrocarbon.

Hydrogen

Definition: The lightest and most abundant element in the universe, with the symbol H and atomic number 1.
Example: Hydrogen is a key component of water.

Hydrolysis

Definition: A chemical reaction involving the breaking of a bond in a molecule using water.
Example: The hydrolysis of esters produces alcohol and acid.

Hydroxide

Definition: A compound containing the hydroxide ion (OH−).
Example: Sodium hydroxide is a strong base used in soap making.

Hypothesis

Definition: A proposed explanation for a phenomenon, based on limited evidence.
Example: The hypothesis was tested through experiments.

Impurity

Definition: A substance that is present in small amounts and affects the properties of the main substance.
Example: Impurities in water can affect its taste and safety.

Inactive

Definition: Not chemically reactive.
Example: Noble gases are generally inactive due to their full electron shells.

Inert

Definition: Chemically inactive.
Example: Argon is an inert gas used in light bulbs.

Inhibitor

Definition: A substance that slows down or prevents a chemical reaction.
Example: Inhibitors are used to prevent corrosion in pipelines.

Inorganic

Definition: Compounds that do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds.
Example: Sodium chloride is an inorganic compound.

Inquiry

Definition: The act of asking for information or conducting an investigation.
Example: The scientific inquiry involved extensive research and experimentation.

Instruction

Definition: Detailed information on how to do something.
Example: The laboratory manual provided clear instructions for the experiment.

Interaction

Definition: The action or influence of things on one another.
Example: The interaction between acids and bases can produce salts.

Interactive

Definition: Involving active participation.
Example: The interactive simulation helped students understand chemical reactions.

Investigation

Definition: The process of examining a subject in detail to discover facts or information.
Example: The investigation revealed new insights into the chemical process.

Iodine

Definition: A halogen element with the symbol I and atomic number 53.
Example: Iodine is used as a disinfectant and in thyroid medications.

Ion

Definition: An atom or molecule with a net electric charge due to the loss or gain of one or more electrons.
Example: Sodium ions are positively charged.

Isomer

Definition: Compounds with the same molecular formula but different structures.
Example: Glucose and fructose are isomers.

Isotope

Definition: Atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons.
Example: Carbon-12 and carbon-14 are isotopes of carbon.

Kinetic

Definition: Relating to or resulting from motion.
Example: Kinetic energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion.

Laser

Definition: A device that emits light through a process of optical amplification.
Example: Lasers are used in various medical and industrial applications.

Latent

Definition: Existing but not yet developed or manifest.
Example: Latent heat is the heat absorbed or released during a phase change.

Light

Definition: Electromagnetic radiation that is visible to the human eye.
Example: Light is essential for photosynthesis in plants.

Lipid

Definition: A group of naturally occurring molecules that include fats, waxes, and vitamins.
Example: Lipids are a major component of cell membranes.

Liquid

Definition: A state of matter with a definite volume but no fixed shape.
Example: Water is a common liquid used in many chemical reactions.

Litmus

Definition: A dye used as an acid-base indicator, changing color in response to pH.
Example: Litmus paper turns red in acidic solutions and blue in alkaline solutions.

Magnetic

Definition: Having the property of attracting iron and certain other materials by virtue of a magnetic field.
Example: Iron and steel are magnetic materials.

Matter

Definition: Anything that has mass and takes up space.
Example: Everything around us, including solids, liquids, and gases, is made of matter.

Measure

Definition: To determine the size, amount, or degree of something using an instrument or device.
Example: Scientists measure the volume of a liquid using a graduated cylinder.

Melt

Definition: To change from a solid to a liquid state due to heat.
Example: Ice melts into water when the temperature rises above 0°C.

Metal

Definition: An element that is typically hard, shiny, and has good electrical and thermal conductivity.
Example: Gold is a valuable metal used in jewelry and electronics.

Microbe

Definition: A microscopic organism, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Example: Microbes are studied in microbiology to understand their role in disease.

Mixture

Definition: A combination of two or more substances that are not chemically bonded.
Example: Air is a mixture of gases including nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide.

Molecule

Definition: The smallest unit of a chemical compound that retains its chemical properties.
Example: A water molecule consists of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom.

Name

Definition: The term used to identify a chemical element, compound, or substance.
Example: The chemical name for table salt is sodium chloride.

Negative

Definition: Having an electric charge characterized by the gain of electrons.
Example: Electrons have a negative charge.

Neon

Definition: A noble gas element with the symbol Ne and atomic number 10.
Example: Neon lights are often used in advertising signs.

Neutralize

Definition: To make an acidic or alkaline solution chemically neutral.
Example: Adding a base to an acid will neutralize the solution.

Neutron

Definition: A subatomic particle with no electric charge, found in the nucleus of an atom.
Example: Neutrons help stabilize the nucleus of an atom.

Nonn

Definition: (No definition available, possible typo for “None” or could be “Nonmetal”)
Example: None of the samples showed any signs of contamination.

Nuclear

Definition: Relating to the nucleus of an atom or to the use of atomic energy.
Example: Nuclear energy is produced through fission or fusion reactions.

Nucleus

Definition: The central part of an atom, containing protons and neutrons.
Example: The nucleus is positively charged due to the presence of protons.

Number

Definition: A numerical value used to describe quantities, such as atomic number or mass number.
Example: The atomic number of carbon is 6.

Orbit

Definition: The path of an electron around the nucleus of an atom.
Example: Electrons move in specific orbits or energy levels around the nucleus.

Organic

Definition: Relating to compounds containing carbon, typically associated with living organisms.
Example: Glucose is an organic compound found in many living organisms.

Osmosis

Definition: The movement of solvent molecules through a semipermeable membrane from a less concentrated solution to a more concentrated one.
Example: Osmosis is crucial for maintaining cell turgor in plants.

Oxidation

Definition: A chemical reaction in which a substance loses electrons, often associated with gaining oxygen.
Example: Rusting of iron is an example of oxidation.

Oxygen

Definition: A reactive gas element with the symbol O and atomic number 8, essential for respiration.
Example: Oxygen is necessary for the combustion process.

Paper

Definition: A material made from cellulose pulp, used in chromatography and as filter paper in laboratories.
Example: Filter paper is used to separate solids from liquids in a mixture.

Particle

Definition: A small portion of matter, such as an atom, molecule, or ion.
Example: Particles in a gas move rapidly and are widely spaced.

Periodic

Definition: Relating to the periodic table, which organizes elements by their properties.
Example: The periodic table helps predict the behavior of elements.

Pharmacology

Definition: The branch of science concerned with the study of drugs and their effects on living organisms.
Example: Pharmacology is essential for the development of new medications.

Phenomena

Definition: Observable events or occurrences that can be studied scientifically.
Example: Chemical phenomena include reactions like combustion and photosynthesis.

Physical

Definition: Relating to the properties and changes of matter that do not involve chemical reactions.
Example: Physical changes include changes in state, such as melting or freezing.

Pipette

Definition: A laboratory tool used to transport a measured volume of liquid.
Example: A pipette is used to add precise amounts of reagents to a reaction mixture.

Pollution

Definition: The presence of harmful substances in the environment.
Example: Chemical pollution can contaminate water sources and harm aquatic life.

Polymer

Definition: A large molecule made up of repeating structural units.
Example: Plastic is a common polymer used in various products.

Positive

Definition: Having an electric charge characterized by the loss of electrons.
Example: Protons have a positive charge.

Power

Definition: The ability to do work or cause change; often measured in watts.
Example: Power plants generate electricity by converting energy from various sources.

Practical

Definition: Relating to real-world applications or hands-on activities.
Example: Practical experiments in chemistry labs help students understand theoretical concepts.

Process

Definition: A series of actions or steps taken to achieve a particular result.
Example: The process of distillation separates components based on their boiling points.

Properties

Definition: Characteristics used to describe or identify a substance.
Example: Physical properties include color, density, and melting point.

Protein

Definition: A large molecule composed of amino acids, essential for all living organisms.
Example: Proteins are vital for building and repairing tissues.

Proton

Definition: A subatomic particle with a positive charge found in the nucleus of an atom.
Example: The number of protons in an atom’s nucleus determines its element.

Pure

Definition: Not mixed with any other substance; having a uniform composition.
Example: Pure water is free from impurities and contaminants.

Quantum

Definition: The smallest amount of a physical quantity that can exist independently, especially a discrete quantity of electromagnetic radiation.
Example: Quantum mechanics explains the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic levels.

Quark

Definition: A fundamental particle and a basic constituent of matter.
Example: Quarks combine to form protons and neutrons.

Radiation

Definition: The emission of energy as electromagnetic waves or as moving subatomic particles.
Example: Radiation from the sun is essential for life on Earth.

Radical

Definition: A group of atoms behaving as a unit in a number of compounds.
Example: The hydroxyl radical (OH) is highly reactive and can damage cells.

Radioactivity

Definition: The emission of ionizing radiation or particles caused by the spontaneous disintegration of atomic nuclei.
Example: Radioactivity is used in medical imaging and cancer treatment.

Reaction

Definition: A process in which substances interact to form new substances.
Example: The reaction between vinegar and baking soda produces carbon dioxide gas.

Reagent

Definition: A substance used in a chemical reaction to detect, measure, or produce other substances.
Example: Reagents are essential for conducting chemical tests in the lab.

Rectify

Definition: To correct or adjust something.
Example: The pH of a solution can be rectified by adding an acid or a base.

Reduction

Definition: A chemical reaction that involves the gain of electrons or the decrease in oxidation state of a substance.
Example: Reduction is the opposite of oxidation in redox reactions.

Refine

Definition: To purify a substance by removing impurities.
Example: Crude oil is refined into gasoline and other products.

Release

Definition: To set free or discharge a substance.
Example: The reaction releases a significant amount of energy in the form of heat.

Revelation

Definition: The act of revealing or disclosing something.
Example: The discovery of a new element was a significant revelation in chemistry.

Revert

Definition: To return to a previous state or condition.
Example: The solution reverted to its original color after the reaction was complete.

Salt

Definition: An ionic compound formed by the neutralization reaction between an acid and a base.
Example: Table salt is chemically known as sodium chloride.

Scientist

Definition: A person who conducts scientific research to advance knowledge.
Example: Scientists play a crucial role in developing new medicines and technologies.

Semiconductor

Definition: A material that has electrical conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator.
Example: Silicon is a widely used semiconductor in electronic devices.

Separation

Definition: The process of dividing a mixture into its individual components.
Example: Filtration is a common method of separation in chemistry.

Soluble

Definition: Capable of being dissolved in a solvent.
Example: Sugar is soluble in water.

Solvent

Definition: A substance that dissolves another substance, forming a solution.
Example: Water is often called the universal solvent because it dissolves many substances.

Speed

Definition: The rate at which a chemical reaction occurs.
Example: Catalysts can increase the speed of a chemical reaction.

Substance

Definition: A form of matter with a uniform and definite composition.
Example: Pure substances include elements and compounds.

Suspension

Definition: A mixture in which particles are dispersed throughout the bulk of a fluid.
Example: Muddy water is a suspension of soil particles in water.

Symbiosis

Definition: A close and long-term biological interaction between two different biological organisms.
Example: Lichens are an example of symbiosis between fungi and algae.

Symbol

Definition: A letter or letters representing an element.
Example: The symbol for carbon is C.

Syneresis

Definition: The contraction of a gel, causing the liquid to be expelled.
Example: Syneresis is observed in yogurt when liquid separates from the solid part.

Synergy

Definition: The interaction of elements that when combined produce a total effect greater than the sum of the individual elements.
Example: The synergy between the two chemicals resulted in a more effective reaction.

Synthesis

Definition: The production of a chemical compound by the union of simpler chemical compounds.
Example: The synthesis of aspirin involves the reaction of salicylic acid with acetic anhydride.

Synthesize

Definition: To combine various components to form a new, complex product.
Example: Scientists can synthesize new materials with unique properties.

Systematic

Definition: Done or acting according to a fixed plan or system; methodical.
Example: Systematic analysis ensures accurate and reliable results in experiments.

Table

Definition: A chart or list of data.
Example: The periodic table organizes elements based on their properties.

Temperature

Definition: The measure of the average kinetic energy of the particles in a substance.
Example: The temperature of a reaction can affect the rate at which it occurs.

Theory

Definition: A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world.
Example: The theory of relativity revolutionized our understanding of space and time.

Titration

Definition: A technique in which a solution of known concentration is used to determine the concentration of an unknown solution.
Example: Titration is commonly used in acid-base reactions to determine the acidity or alkalinity of a solution.

Toxin

Definition: A poisonous substance produced by living organisms.
Example: Botulinum toxin is a potent neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.

Transformation

Definition: A thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance.
Example: Chemical transformation involves converting one substance into another.

Transition

Definition: The process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.
Example: Transition metals are elements that have partially filled d orbitals.

Undissolved

Definition: Not dissolved in a solution.
Example: Undissolved sugar at the bottom of a cup indicates saturation of the solution.

Unit

Definition: A standard quantity used in measurement.
Example: The mole is a unit used to measure the amount of substance.

Unreactive

Definition: Not readily participating in chemical reactions.
Example: Noble gases are generally unreactive due to their stable electron configurations.

Uranium

Definition: A heavy metal element with the symbol U and atomic number 92, used as fuel in nuclear reactors.
Example: Uranium is a key element in nuclear power generation.

Valency

Definition: The combining power of an element, especially as measured by the number of hydrogen atoms it can displace or combine with.
Example: Carbon has a valency of four, meaning it can form four bonds with other atoms.

Validation

Definition: The process of checking or proving the validity or accuracy of something.
Example: Validation of experimental results is crucial for scientific research.

Value

Definition: The numerical quantity measured or assigned or computed.
Example: The pH value indicates the acidity or alkalinity of a solution.

Vapor

Definition: The gaseous state of a substance that is normally liquid or solid at room temperature.
Example: Water vapor is present in the air as a part of the water cycle.

Vary

Definition: To change or alter in form, appearance, or nature.
Example: Reaction rates can vary depending on temperature and concentration.

Versatile

Definition: Capable of adapting or being adapted for many different functions or activities.
Example: Carbon is a versatile element that forms a wide variety of compounds.

Viscosity

Definition: The measure of a fluid’s resistance to flow.
Example: Honey has a higher viscosity than water.

Water

Definition: A colorless, transparent, odorless liquid that forms the seas, lakes, rivers, and rain, and is the basis of the fluids of living organisms.
Example: Water is essential for all known forms of life.

Weight

Definition: The force exerted by the mass of an object due to gravity.
Example: The weight of an object can be measured using a scale.

Xenon

Definition: A noble gas element with the symbol Xe and atomic number 54.
Example: Xenon is used in light-emitting devices such as flashlights and arc lamps.

Zinc

Definition: A metal element with the symbol Zn and atomic number 30, used in galvanization and alloys.
Example: Zinc is essential for human health and is used in supplements.

Zirconium

Definition: A metal element with the symbol Zr and atomic number 40, used in nuclear reactors and as a refractory material.
Example: Zirconium is resistant to corrosion and high temperatures.

Zymoscope

Definition: An instrument used to measure the fermentation power of yeast.
Example: A zymoscope can help determine the efficiency of yeast in producing alcohol.