Short Response Formats

Question 1

How would you compare the atomic radiuses of two things?

Answer 1

• If possible, always mention a loss or gain of an electron shell
• Compare the AMOUNTS of valence electrons

Question 2

How would you explain an atom being non polar?

Answer 2

• It has a SYMMETRICAL charge distribution

Question 3

What is something you always want to do when setting up equations?

Answer 3

Always show the GIVEN significant figures

Question 4

What is something other than a catalyst that would increase the rate of a reaction?

Answer 4

• Increase the surface area
• Increase the temperature
• Increase the concentration

Question 5

How would you explain why you should sandpaper testing strips before each use?

Answer 5

• Exposes unused substance
• Provides a fresh new surface
• More likely with pure substance
• Increases surface area

Question 6

How would you explain why something is not soluble in water?

Answer 6

You have to COMPARE the bonds of both the water and the something.

Question 7

How would you explain that something is fission?

Answer 7

The (specific element) nuclide splits into # different smaller nuclides.

Question 8

When explaining endothermic/exothermic reactions, what word should you use? What word should you avoid?

Answer 8

Avoid using water. Try to use the word solution.

Question 9

How would you explain an electron in the excited state?

Answer 9

• Not all electrons are in their lowest possible energy levels
• A # shell electron has moved to the # shell