C3.1 States of matter Flashcards
States of matter
What are the 3 states of matter?
Solids, liquids and gases
Describe the arrangement of particles in a solid
Solids are tightly packed, usually in a regular pattern, they can’t be compressed.
Describe the arrangement of particles in a liquid
Liquids are close together with no regular arrangement.
Describe the arrangement of particles in a gas
Gases are well separated with no regular arrangement
What is the process of a solid becoming a liquid called?
Melting
What is the process of a gas becoming a liquid called?
Condensation
What is the process of a liquid becoming a solid?
Freezing
What is the melting point equal to?
The freezing point
What is sublimation?
When a solid turns straight into a gas on heating, without becoming a liquid first - or when a gas turns straight into a solid, without becoming a liquid.
Why do solids have a fixed shape and can’t flow?
They fixed shape and can’t flow because their particles cannot move from place to place
Why can’t solids be compressed?
Solids can’t be compressed , because their particles are close together and have no space to move into
Why do liquids flow and take the shape of their container?
Liquids flow and take the shape of their container because their particles can move around each other
Why can’t liquids be compressed?
Liquids can’t be compressed , because their particles are close together and have no space to move into
Why can gases flow and completely fill their container?
Gases flow and completely fill their container, because their particles can move quickly in all directions
Why can gases be compressed?
Gases can be compressed, because their particles are far apart and have space to move into
