SOLID, LIQUID and GAS

Arrangement of Molecules in Solid, Liquid and Gas

AMAZING

Gases have the following characteristics: no definite shape (takes the shape of its container) no definite volume, particles move in random motion with little or no attraction to each other, highly compressibles.

Liquid Liquids have the following characteristics: no definite shape (takes the shape of its container) has definite volume particles are free to move over each other, but are still attracted to each other

Solids are defined by the following characteristics: definite shape (rigid), definite volume, particles vibrate around fixed axes

SOLID

In solids the molecules are closely packed. They have least amount of intermolecular spaces. The force of attraction between the molecules is very strong and free motion of molecules is not possible. That is why solid is very rigid and retain their shape.

LIQUID

In liquids the molecules are loosely held. There are large intermolecular spaces in liquids. The force of attraction between the molecules is small and motion of molecules is possible. That is why liquids are not rigid and have no shape of their own. They take the shape of the container.

GAS

In a gas, molecules are separated from one another by whole spaces. The force of attraction between molecules js the least and the molecules have maximum freedom of motion. Hence a gas has neither definite shape nor a definite volume. Gases and liquid are called fluids because of their ability to flow.

Note that Particles in a: Gas are well separated with no regular arrangement. Liquid are close together with no regular arrangement. Solid are tightly packed, usually in a regular pattern.

Note that Particles in a:

Gas vibrate and move freely at high speeds. Liquid vibrate, move about, and slide past each other. Solid vibrate (jiggle) but generally do not move from place to place

Liquids and solids are often referred to as condensed phases because the particles are very close together.

Key Points

• Matter can exist in one of three main states: solid, liquid, or gas.

• Solid matter is composed of tightly packed particles. A solid will retain its shape; the particles are not free to move around.

• Liquid matter is made of more loosely packed particles. It will take the shape of its container. Particles can move about within a liquid, but they are packed densely enough that volume is maintained.

• Gaseous matter is composed of particles packed so loosely that it has neither a defined shape nor a defined volume. A gas can be compressed.

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