Science, Tech, Math › Science Intrinsic Property Definition (Chemistry) Print Density is an intrinsic property of matter. It is the same regardless of the size of a sample. Dave King / Getty Images Science Chemistry Chemical Laws Basics Molecules Periodic Table Projects & Experiments Scientific Method Biochemistry Physical Chemistry Medical Chemistry Chemistry In Everyday Life Famous Chemists Activities for Kids Abbreviations & Acronyms Biology Physics Geology Astronomy Weather & Climate By Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D. Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D. Chemistry Expert Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College Dr. Helmenstine holds a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences and is a science writer, educator, and consultant. She has taught science courses at the high school, college, and graduate levels. Learn about our Editorial Process Updated on August 05, 2019 In chemistry, an intrinsic property is a property of a substance that is independent of the amount of the substance present. Such properties are inherent qualities of the type and form of matter, mainly dependent on chemical composition and structure. Key Takeaways: Intrinsic Property of Matter An intrinsic property is independent of the size of a sample or the amount of matter that is present.Examples of intrinsic properties include density and specific gravity. Intrinsic Versus Extrinsic Properties In contrast to intrinsic properties, extrinsic properties are not essential qualities of a material. Extrinsic properties are affected by external factors. Intrinsic and extrinsic properties are closely related to intensive and extensive properties of matter. Examples of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Properties Density is an intrinsic property, while weight is an extrinsic property. The density of a material is the same, regardless of the conditions. Weight depends on gravity, so it is not a property of matter, but depends on the gravitational field. The crystal structure of a sample of ice is an intrinsic property, while the color of the ice is an extrinsic property. A small sample of ice may appear clear, while a large sample would be blue. Source Lewis, David (1983). "Extrinsic Properties." Philosophical Studies. Springer Netherlands. 44: 197–200. doi:10.1007/bf00354100 Cite this Article Format mla apa chicago Your Citation Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Intrinsic Property Definition (Chemistry)." ThoughtCo, Aug. 27, 2020, thoughtco.com/definition-of-intrinsic-property-605256. Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. (2020, August 27). Intrinsic Property Definition (Chemistry). Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-intrinsic-property-605256 Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Intrinsic Property Definition (Chemistry)." ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-intrinsic-property-605256 (accessed April 19, 2024). copy citation