In this unit you will be able to:

Atomic Nature of Matter

1. Classify atoms and molecules and differentiate between them.
2. Describe some of the early experiments that indicate the atomic nature of the universe.
3. Differentiate between elements, compounds and mixtures.
4. Describe the structure of an atom and the importance and roles of the three subatomic particles.
5. Examine the periodic chart and determine the nuclear components of a specific atom.
6. Differentiate between the states of matter.

Solids

1. Name the four types of atomic bonding and explain how each bonds one atom to another.
2. Examine and explain the composition of crystalline structures.
3. Define tension and compression and explain how these concepts apply to architecture.
4. Design and build a bridge using knowledge of solid structures (i.e. compression, tension, elasticity, scaling, etc.)
5. Use knowledge of solids to explain strong shapes like “I-beams”, arches, and triangles.
6. Define density and use it to predict the behavior or everyday systems.
7. Explain how scaling affects the size and strength of numerous objects (e.g. cells, elephants, bridges, etc…)

Liquids

1. Define pressure in solids and liquids.
2. Explain Archimedes' Principle and use it to predict weight loss when an object is immersed in a fluid.
3. Relate the concepts of pressure, density, buoyancy, and floatation.
4. Write Pascal's Principle and use it to explain pressure transmission in a fluid.
5. Apply knowledge of liquids to predict and explain the behavior of several “everyday” systems.

Gases and Plasmas

1. List the components of the atmosphere.
2. Discuss pressure in gases and explain the operation of several means of measuring the pressure.
3. Predict the behavior of a gas using Boyle's Law and other gas laws.
4. Discuss various barometers and describe the function of each.
5. State Bernoulli's principle and using it explain the action of a variety of objects when placed in a fluid stream.
6. Define plasma and discuss some application of plasmas in the everyday world.
7. Apply knowledge of gases to predict and explain the behavior of several “everyday” systems.