State of Matter Chemistry Example 1

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 1

easy
Compare the three common states of matter (solid, liquid, gas) in terms of particle arrangement, shape, and volume.

Solution

  1. 1
    Solid: particles tightly packed in fixed positions. Definite shape and definite volume.
  2. 2
    Liquid: particles close together but can slide past each other. Indefinite shape but definite volume.
  3. 3
    Gas: particles far apart with rapid random motion. Indefinite shape and indefinite volume.

Answer

Solid: fixed shape/volume. Liquid: fixed volume. Gas: neither fixed.\text{Solid: fixed shape/volume. Liquid: fixed volume. Gas: neither fixed.}
The state of matter depends on the balance between kinetic energy (motion) and intermolecular forces (attraction). Increasing temperature provides more kinetic energy, favoring less ordered states.

About State of Matter

The distinct physical forms that matter can take depending on the arrangement, spacing, and motion of its particles.

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More State of Matter Examples

Example 2 medium

Why can gases be compressed easily while liquids and solids cannot?

Example 3 easy

At room temperature, classify each as solid, liquid, or gas: (a) mercury, (b) oxygen, (c) table salt

Example 4 hard

Glass appears solid but some claim it is actually a very slow-moving liquid because old windows are

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