Chemistry 101 Quiz: Challenge Your Chemistry Knowledge!
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This Chemistry 101 quiz helps you practice the basics - equations, reactions, the periodic table, and lab safety - so you can study smarter and spot gaps before a test. Take it at your pace and see what to review next. For more practice, try a basic quiz or review lab safety .
Study Outcomes
- Understand Atomic Structure -
Identify the basic components of an atom, including protons, neutrons and electrons, and explain how their arrangement defines each element.
- Apply Periodic Table Principles -
Use group and period trends to predict an element's properties, such as reactivity, atomic radius and ionization energy.
- Classify Chemical Reactions -
Recognize and differentiate between synthesis, decomposition, single replacement and double replacement reactions.
- Interpret and Balance Equations -
Translate word descriptions into chemical equations and balance them to reflect the law of conservation of mass.
- Analyze Molecular Formulas -
Determine molecular composition and calculate molar mass from chemical formulas.
- Apply Laboratory Safety Protocols -
Identify key safety symbols and best practices to handle chemicals and equipment responsibly.
Cheat Sheet
- Atomic Structure Basics -
An atom's identity is defined by its proton count (atomic number) while its mass number sums protons and neutrons; for example, carbon's isotopes C-12 and C-14 share 6 protons but have different neutrons. Electrons occupy energy levels or orbitals around the nucleus following the Aufbau principle. Remember: "2n²" predicts the maximum electrons in a shell (n being the shell number).
- Periodic Table Trends -
Trends like electronegativity, ionization energy, and atomic radius vary predictably across periods and groups. Electronegativity generally increases left to right and bottom to top, while atomic radius does the opposite. Use the mnemonic "FONClBrISCH" to remember high-electronegativity elements (Fluorine, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Chlorine, Bromine, Iodine, Sulfur, Carbon, Hydrogen).
- Chemical Bonding and Molecular Shapes -
Ionic bonds form via electron transfer (e.g., NaCl), covalent bonds share electrons (e.g., H₂O), and metallic bonds pool electrons in a lattice. Lewis dot structures help visualize valence electrons and predict molecular shapes using VSEPR theory. Practice drawing NH₃ (trigonal pyramidal) or CO₂ (linear) to master bond angles.
- Reaction Types and Equation Balancing -
Common reaction types include synthesis (A + B → AB), decomposition (AB → A + B), single replacement, and combustion. Balancing equations conserves mass; ensure the same number of each atom appears on both sides (e.g., 2H₂ + O₂ → 2H₂O). Use "OIL RIG" (Oxidation Is Loss, Reduction Is Gain) to track electron transfers in redox reactions.
- Essential Lab Safety Practices -
Always wear safety goggles, gloves, and a lab coat to protect against chemical splashes and spills; know the locations of eyewash stations and fire extinguishers. Understand MSDS sheets for hazards and proper handling of each chemical. Follow the "no food or drink in the lab" rule to avoid accidental ingestion of toxic substances.