Bonding, structure and the properties of matter

Question 1

Describe the arrangement of particles in a solid

Answer 1

• compact arrangement of particles
• strong intermolecular forces
• small spaces between particles
• less kinetic energy- vibrate in fixed positions
• vibrational movement

Question 2

Describe the arrangement of particles in a liquid

Answer 2

• particles are further apart than in a solid
• at least 50% are in contact
• Larger spaces than in a solid
• more kinetic energy than in a solid
• weaker intermolecular forces than in a solid
• rotational and translational movement compared to vibration.

Question 3

Describe the arrangement of particles in a gas.

Answer 3

• particles are the furthest apart
• Largest spaces between particles
• weakest intermolecular forces: negligible/ insignificant
• very high kinetic energy
• Particles are so far apart
• random motion: haphazard