States of Matter

Solid

a state of matter that has a definite shape and volume because the bonds between the molecules or atoms within the structure are strong

Liquid

a state of matter that has a definite volume but an undefined shape because there are weak bonds between the molecules or atoms within the substance

Solid

a state of matter that has a definite shape and volume because the bonds between the molecules or atoms within the structure are strong

Liquid

a state of matter that has a definite volume but an undefined shape because there are weak bonds between the molecules or atoms within the substance

Gas

a state of matter that has an indefinite volume and shape because there are usually no bonds between the molecules or atoms within the substance

Density

the quantity of matter in a particular unit or amount of volume

Intermolecular Forces

forces of attraction that bond molecules with other molecules

States of Matter

The states of matter are the different phases or states in which matter can exist.

Solid State Characteristics

When matter is in a solid state, the particles are very close together, joined by strong intermolecular forces.

Solid Properties

Solids have a definite shape and volume, high density, and low compressibility.

Crystalline Solids

Solids can be crystalline if the particles follow a regular arrangement.

Amorphous Solids

Solids can be amorphous when the particles have an irregular arrangement.

Liquid State Characteristics

Liquid substances are still joined by intermolecular forces, but they are not as strong as in solids.

Liquid Properties

Liquids have an indefinite shape, defined volume, high fluidity, and low compressibility.

Gas State Characteristics

Gases have particles that have very weak intermolecular forces.

Gas Properties

Gases have an indefinite shape and volume, are highly compressible, and can expand if the size of the container changes.

Density Comparison

Solids are typically denser than liquids because their molecules are packed closer together.

Fluidity of Liquids

Liquids have high fluidity, and their density decreases as temperature increases.

Compressibility of Gases

Gases are highly compressible, meaning they can be easily 'squished down.'

Molecular Arrangement in Solids

In solids, molecules are tightly packed together and don't have much room to move around.

Molecular Arrangement in Liquids

Liquids have molecules that are not as tightly packed together.

Solids

Have molecules that are tightly packed together, resulting in a fixed shape and volume.

Liquids

Have molecules that are not as tightly packed, allowing them to flow and take the shape of their container.

Gases

Have molecules that are the furthest apart, allowing them to move freely and fill any container.

Density

A measure of mass (particles) within a particular unit of volume; solids have the highest density, followed by liquids, then gases.

Molecular Movement in Solids

Molecules are tightly packed and can only vibrate in place.

Molecular Movement in Liquids

Molecules are closely packed but can slide past one another, allowing liquids to flow.

Molecular Movement in Gases

Molecules move freely in all directions and bounce off each other and the walls of their container.

Balloon Example

A balloon filled with gas is less heavy than one filled with water (liquid) or sand (solid) due to the lower density of gas.

Intermolecular Forces in Gases

Gases have very little attraction between molecules, resulting in fewer intermolecular forces.

Fixed Shape and Volume

Solids have a fixed shape and volume due to tightly packed molecules.

Flow of Liquids

Liquids can flow and take the shape of their container because their molecules have room to move.

Expansion of Gases

Gases can expand and fill any container they are in due to widely spaced molecules.

Comparison of Densities

Solids > Liquids > Gases in terms of density.

Definite Volume of Liquids

Liquids have a definite volume because their molecules stick together somewhat.

Behavior of Gas Molecules

Gas molecules move freely and bounce off one another and the walls of their container.

Molecular Spacing

The main differences in molecular movement between states of matter depend on the amount of space between molecules.

Vibrational Movement in Solids

In solids, molecules can only vibrate in place due to tight packing.

Sliding Movement in Liquids

In liquids, molecules can slide past one another while still being somewhat connected.

Free Movement in Gases

In gases, molecules move around freely and have a lot of space between them.