Intermolecular Forces of Liquids and Solids

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the lecture notes on solids, liquids, intermolecular forces, and the kinetic molecular theory.

Intermolecular forces

The attractive forces between particles in a substance; strength increases as particles come closer together.

Kinetic Molecular Theory

A model stating that matter is made of tiny particles in constant motion; the energy of motion (kinetic energy) relates to temperature; there is space between particles.

State of matter

One of the forms of matter (solid, liquid, gas) defined by particle arrangement and energy.

Solid

A state with definite shape and volume; particles are tightly packed with strong attractions and little movement.

Liquid

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

Definite shape

Property of solids; a solid maintains its own shape under external forces.

Definite volume

Property of solids; a solid occupies a fixed amount of space.

Indefinite shape

Property of liquids; a liquid takes the shape of its container.

Flowability

The ability of a liquid to flow and be poured.

Density

Mass per unit volume; solids are typically denser than liquids and gases.

Rigidity

The property of solids to resist shape change; due to strong interparticle attractions.

Tightly packed

Describes solids where particles are very close with little space between them.

Regular pattern

Solids have an orderly, fixed arrangement of particles (lattice).

Strong attraction

The strong forces between solid particles that keep them in fixed positions.

Particle motion in solids

Solids: particles vibrate in place and move slowly.

Particle motion in liquids

Liquids: particles are close but not in fixed arrangement; they move and slide past each other.

Phase change

Transition between solid, liquid, and gas when temperature or pressure changes.

Temperature

A measure of thermal energy; higher temperature increases kinetic energy and particle speed.

Kinetic energy

Energy of motion; in KMT, related to temperature and particle speed.

Space between particles

The gap between particles; size depends on state of matter.

Diffusion

Movement of particles from high to low concentration; illustrated by ink spreading in water.

States of matter

The distinct forms of matter (solid, liquid, gas) characterized by particle energy and arrangement.