Intro to States of Matter

Flashcards covering key concepts related to the states of matter and phase changes.

Solid

A state of matter with definite mass, shape, and volume; particles are tightly packed and vibrate in place.

Liquid

A state of matter with definite mass, indefinite shape, and definite volume; particles are close together but can move past each other.

Gas

A state of matter with definite mass, indefinite shape, and indefinite volume; particles are much further apart and vibrate more than solids or liquids.

Phase Change

A process where substances change from one state of matter to another, involving energy changes that affect particle motion.

Vaporization

The process of a liquid turning into a gas, can occur through boiling or evaporation.

Boiling Point

The temperature at which the vapor pressure of a liquid equals the atmospheric pressure, allowing particles to escape.

Evaporation

The process by which particles near the surface of a liquid gain energy to escape into the gas phase.

Condensation

The physical change of a gas into a liquid; involves the removal of energy and a decrease in particle speed.

Freezing

The physical change of a liquid into a solid by decreasing temperature and removing energy.

Melting

The physical change of a solid into a liquid by increasing temperature and adding energy.

Sublimation

The process where a solid changes directly into a gas, involving an increase in temperature and energy.

Deposition

The change of a gas directly into a solid, involving a decrease in temperature and energy.

Temperature during phase changes

Temperature does not change during phase changes; matter exists in both phases.

Cooling Curve

A graph showing temperature changes over time as heat is added or removed, illustrating phase changes.