States of Matter and Changes of State

Front

What is the particle model used for?

Back

The particle model is used to explain differences between solids, liquids, and gases, and to explain how changes from one state to another happen.

Front

Describe the particle arrangement in a solid.

Back

In a solid, the particles are fixed in position and only vibrate. They can’t flow around.

Front

Describe the particle arrangement in a liquid.

Back

In a liquid, the particles are still very close together but they can flow past each other.

Front

Describe the particle arrangement in a gas.

Back

In a gas, the particles move randomly and there is empty space between them.

Front

What happens to the mass of a substance during a change of state?

Back

There is no change in the mass of the substance during a change of state because no particles are created or destroyed.

Front

What is meant by a change of state?

Back

A change of state refers to the process where a substance changes from one physical form (solid, liquid, gas) to another, such as melting, freezing, or evaporating.

Front

How does temperature affect the movement of particles in a substance?

Back

As temperature increases, the particles move faster and have more energy. As temperature decreases, the particles move slower and have less energy.

Front

Why do solids have a fixed shape while liquids and gases do not?

Back

Solids have a fixed shape because their particles are tightly packed and only vibrate in place. Liquids and gases have particles that can move past each other, allowing them to flow and take the shape of their container.