States of Matter

Flashcards covering the key concepts and terminology related to states of matter, changes of state, and associated properties.

Solid

Matter with a definite shape and volume; atoms are arranged in patterns close together, with low energy mostly as vibrations.

Liquid

Matter with a definite volume but no definite shape; atoms slide past each other with more energy than solids, less than gases.

Gas

Matter with no definite shape or volume; particles move freely and are independent, with high energy.

Plasma

Matter similar to gas but composed of ions that conduct electricity; has very high energy.

Viscosity

A liquid's resistance to flow; higher viscosity means less flow.

Surface Tension

The cohesion of molecules at the surface of a liquid.

Cohesion

Attractive forces between liquid molecules.

Thermal Energy

The energy transferred due to a temperature difference; can cause changes in states of matter.

Kinetic Energy

The energy of movement of particles in matter; solids have the least kinetic energy while plasma has the most.

Potential Energy

Stored energy in matter, solids have the most potential energy while plasma has the least.

Melting

The transition from solid to liquid.

Evaporation

The transition from liquid to gas.

Freezing

The transition from liquid to solid.

Condensation

The transition from gas to liquid.

Ionization

The transition from gas to plasma.

Deionization

The transition from plasma to gas.

Sublimation

The transition from solid to gas.

Deposition

The transition from gas to solid.