reactive substance crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "reactive substance crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ION: An atom or molecule that has an electric charge, making it highly reactive in chemical processes.
4 Letters
ACID: A chemical compound that readily donates protons or accepts electron pairs, often reacting vigorously with bases.
6 Letters
ALKALI: A soluble base that reacts with acids to form salts and water, known for its high reactivity.
7 Letters
ELEMENT: A pure substance consisting of atoms with the same number of protons; many elements like alkali metals are highly reactive.
RADICAL: A highly reactive atom or molecule with an unpaired electron, seeking to form new bonds.
REAGENT: A substance used in a chemical reaction to detect, measure, examine, or produce other substances.
8 Letters
CATALYST: A substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being consumed, often by providing an alternative reaction pathway.
More About "reactive substance crossword clue"
Understanding "reactive substance" in a crossword context often boils down to general chemistry knowledge. These clues typically point to chemicals that undergo significant change or cause change in others. This could range from common lab chemicals to elements fundamental to the periodic table's structure.
The reactivity of a substance is dictated by its electron configuration, specifically how eager it is to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a stable state. Highly reactive substances like alkali metals (e.g., sodium, potassium) react vigorously with water, while noble gases are almost entirely unreactive. Crossword setters often play on these core chemical properties to formulate clues.
When you encounter such a clue, consider the context of the puzzle – is it a science-themed puzzle, or a general knowledge one? This can help narrow down whether the answer should be a specific chemical (like ACID or ALKALI) or a broader term (like ELEMENT or COMPOUND).
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Always read the full clue and any associated theme. A clue about a "reactive substance" in a chemistry-themed puzzle might lean towards specific compounds, while a general knowledge puzzle might prefer broader terms.
- Check Letter Count: After brainstorming potential answers, immediately check if they match the required letter count. This is often the quickest way to confirm or eliminate possibilities.
- Consider Chemical Categories: Think about the major categories of reactive chemicals: acids, bases, elements (especially highly reactive ones like halogens or alkali metals), and compounds.
- Think about Function: Does the clue hint at what the substance does (e.g., "pH adjuster" for acid/base, "reaction initiator" for reagent)?
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reactive substance in chemistry?
In chemistry, a reactive substance is a chemical compound or element that readily undergoes chemical reactions with other substances, often due to an unstable electron configuration or the presence of highly electronegative/electropositive elements. Examples include strong acids, bases, and alkali metals.
How do crossword clues refer to reactive substances?
Crossword clues referring to reactive substances often use terms like 'unstable chemical,' 'responds quickly,' 'active compound,' 'pH adjuster,' or specific types of reactive chemicals such as 'acid' or 'base.' The context might hint at their function in a reaction or their general properties.
Are there common themes for 'reactive substance' clues?
Yes, common themes include specific classifications (acid, base, alkali), general descriptors (element, compound, reagent, radical), or terms related to their role in a reaction (catalyst, oxidant). Sometimes the clue might be a more general term that covers a broad range of reactive chemicals.