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States of Matter - Solids, Liquids & Gases

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States of Matter – Solids, Liquids & Gases

Matter exists as solids, liquids, and gases. Their particle arrangement and movement define each state.

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Introduction to states of matter

  • Substances exist in three states: solids, liquids, and gases.
  • The state depends on how particles are arranged and move.
  • Understanding states of matter helps explain everyday materials.
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Properties of solids

  • Solids have a fixed shape and fixed volume.
    • Particles in solids are closely packed in a regular pattern.
    • Particles vibrate but do not move from place to place.
  • Solids are difficult to compress because particles are close together.
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Properties of liquids

  • Liquids have a fixed volume but take the shape of their container.
    • Particles in liquids are close but arranged randomly.
    • Particles move around freely, sliding past each other.
  • Liquids are harder to compress than gases but easier than solids.
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Properties of gases

  • Gases have no fixed shape or volume. They fill any container completely.
    • Particles in gases are far apart and move quickly in all directions.
  • Gas particles spread out evenly, so gases can be compressed easily.
  • Gases expand when heated because particles move faster and spread out.

Jump to other topics

1States of Matter

2Atoms, Elements & Compounds

3Stoichometry

4Electrochemistry

5Chemical Energetics

6Chemical Reactions

7Acids, Bases & Salts

8The Periodic Table

9Metals

10Chemistry of the Environment

11Organic Chemistry

11.1Formulae, Functional Groups & Terminology

11.2Naming Organic Compounds

11.3Fuels

11.4Alkanes

11.5Alkenes

11.6Alcohols

11.7Carboxylic Acids

11.8Polymers

12Experimental Techniques & Chemical Analysis

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