States of Matter

Flashcards about the three states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas.

Particle Theory (Kinetic Theory)

A model used to explain how particles behave in different states of matter, treating particles as small, solid, inelastic spheres.

Solid

State of matter with strong forces of attraction between particles, holding them in fixed positions within a regular lattice structure, giving it a definite shape and volume.

Melting Point

The temperature at which a solid transforms into a liquid as its particles gain enough energy to break free from their bonds.

Liquid

State of matter with weak forces of attraction between particles, allowing them to move around randomly while maintaining a definite volume but not a definite shape.

Boiling Point

The temperature at which a liquid turns into a gas as its particles gain enough energy to break their bonds altogether.

Gas

State of matter with very weak forces of attraction between particles, allowing them to move freely and fill any container without maintaining a definite shape or volume.

Condensing

The process by which a gas transforms into a liquid as its particles lose energy and form bonds due to cooling.

Freezing

The process by which a liquid transforms into a solid as its particles lose energy and form more bonds due to cooling.

Conservation of Mass in State Changes

In a closed system, the total number of particles remains constant during changes of state, so mass does not change.

Density

Mass per unit volume; changes with the state of matter, being highest in solids, lower in liquids, and lowest in gases.