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Daily Dose 023 | Chemistry
How do you classify the different types of matter?
What’s your first thought when you read “Classify the different types of matter…” in a problem statement?
For most, it’s – Ugh.
Usually not something that brings us much joy as engineers, because let’s be real…
Chemistry isn’t a strength for many of us.
But it’s next level when we see Chemistry FE Exam problems in the context of an Alternative Item Type problem.
Chemistry + AIT usually doesn’t lead to a very solid feeling.
So whether you roll your eyes, gasp a defeated sigh or don’t even know how to respond –
We at Prepineer are going to change that all for the better.
In this lesson, we dive in to a FE Exam Practice Problem in the subject of CHEMISTRY – and more specifically, a problem that is of the AIT DRAG & DROP TYPE, revolving around how to classify the different types of MATTER.
Key Definition
What is MATTER?
MATTER is everything that exists around us.
Everything we see, from our body, to our cars, to that coffee you are about to drink…all of that is matter.
From a conceptual level, MATTER can be defined as anything that has mass and takes up space…or in other words, has a volume.
Now when discussing all of this, it is important to know this –
The Process
How do you classify the different types of matter?
Think of matter as the building blocks of the universe – from the air we breathe to the chair you’re sitting on, it’s all matter.
In Chemistry and Engineering, we understand matter by looking closely at substances to figure out which category they belong to.
Here’s a general breakdown of how to properly classify the different types of matter:
- Observe the substance
- Determine if it’s a Pure Substance or a Mixture
- If it’s a Pure Substance, Identify as an Element or Compound
- If it’s a Mixture, Classify the Mixture
- Consider Examples for Clarification
Look at the substance’s physical properties, such as color, shape, and whether it’s solid, liquid, or gas.
Decide if the substance is a pure substance (having a uniform and definite composition) or a mixture (consisting of different elements or compounds).
Determine if it’s an element (made of one kind of atom) or a compound (made of two or more kinds of atoms chemically bonded).
Classify it as either homogeneous (uniform composition) or heterogeneous (non-uniform composition).
Compare the substance with known examples to further confirm its classification.
So, why is all of this important as engineers?
Understanding how to classify matter allows us to choose the right materials for the systems we are building, ensuring both safety and reliability in their real world operation.
And with all of that being stated, check out the video to see a Chemistry FE Exam Practice Problem that deals with properly classifying the different types of matter.
As always, we are here to help, Prepineer
