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Matter and Materials

5 dot points across 5 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

What are acids and bases, and how can we tell them apart safely?

Describe the properties of common acids and bases, use indicators and the pH scale to identify them, and give everyday examples
A simple answer to the N(T) Science point on acids and bases. Their properties, everyday examples, how indicators and the pH scale tell them apart, and what neutralisation means.
8 min answer →

What is everything made of, and how are elements, compounds and mixtures different?

Describe atoms as the building blocks of matter and distinguish between elements, compounds and mixtures with everyday examples
A simple answer to the N(T) Science point on atoms as building blocks. The difference between elements, compounds and mixtures, with everyday examples like water, oxygen and air.
8 min answer →

What makes metals special, and why do we choose particular metals for particular jobs?

Describe the common properties of metals and explain how those properties decide the everyday uses of metals such as copper, aluminium and steel
A practical answer to the N(T) Science point on metals. Common metal properties such as strength, conducting heat and electricity, and how they decide everyday uses of copper, aluminium and steel.
8 min answer →

How can we separate the different substances in a mixture?

Describe everyday methods for separating mixtures, including filtering, evaporation and using a magnet, and choose the right method for a given mixture
A practical answer to the N(T) Science point on separating mixtures. Filtering, evaporation, decanting and using a magnet, and how to pick the right method for a given mixture.
8 min answer →

What are the three states of matter, and what happens to a substance when it is heated or cooled?

Describe the three states of matter in terms of particle arrangement, and explain the changes of state when a substance is heated or cooled
A simple, scaffolded answer to the N(T) Science point on the three states of matter. Particle arrangement in solids, liquids and gases, and the changes of state caused by heating and cooling.
8 min answer →