Science Study Guide: Matter

Classification of Matter

• Classification is based on shared properties like color, weight, size, and shape.
• Objects consist of various materials that define their characteristics.

Understanding Objects

• An object is defined as a physical entity made from one or more materials.
• Objects can be organized into categories of similar characteristics for easier identification and study.

Observations and Senses

• Observations are details that can be noted about an object through our senses.
• The five senses used for observation are:
  • Hearing
  • Touching
  • Smelling
  • Tasting
  • Seeing

Properties of Matter

• Hardness indicates the degree of resistance a material has to being dented or scratched (hard vs. soft).
• Texture conveys the feel of an object, such as smoothness or roughness.
• Flexibility measures an object's ability to bend without breaking.

Types of Matter

• Matter is primarily categorized into two states: solids and liquids.
• Understanding these types helps in studying physical properties and their behaviors.