Chapter 1

States of Matter

The three states of matter explained by the particle model, and changes of state — with an interactive exercise.

States of Matter — solid, liquid and gas — are explained by the particle model.

In a solid, particles are packed tightly and vibrate in place. In a liquid they are close but can move. In a gas they are far apart and move quickly. Changes of state include melting, freezing, evaporation/boiling and condensation.

Remember

  • Three states: solid, liquid, gas.
  • Melt: solid→liquid · Boil/evaporate: liquid→gas.

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