Glossary

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hybridization: The process of mathematically combining atomic orbitals (all on the same atomThe smallest particle of an element that can be involved in chemical combination with another element; an atom consists of protons and neutrons in a tiny, very dense nucleus, surrounded by electrons, which occupy most of its volume.) to generate an equivalent set of orbitals more consistent with the observed bonding geometry; a description (sp, etc.) of what orbitals were combined.

Term of the Day

The spontaneousCapable of proceeding without an outside source of energy; refers to a reaction in which the products are thermodynamically favored (product-favored reaction). movement of a liquidA state of matter in which the atomic-scale particles remain close together but are able to change their positions so that the matter takes the shape of its container into thin tubes (capillary tubes); the extent of capillary actionThe spontaneous movement of a liquid into thin tubes (capillary tubes); the extent of capillary action is determined by adhesive forces, cohesive forces, and surface tension. is determined by adhesive forces, cohesive forces, and surface tensionThe resistance to an increase in the area of a surface; due to the combined effect of adhesive and cohesive forces at the surface of a liquid. Defined as the energy required to increase the surface area of the liquid isothermally by one square meter..