MATTER Flashcards
What is matter?
Anything which occupies Space (volume) and has mass is called matter.
Element:
An element is defined as a substance , which can not be subdivided into two or more simpler
substances by any chemical means.
Atom:
Atom is defined as the smallest unit of an element , which may or may not have an
independent existence , but always takespart in a chemical reaction.
Molecules:
Molecule is defined as the smallest unit of matter, which has an independent existence and
can retain complete physical and chemical properties of the matter.
What is meant by solid?
Any material which has a definite shape and definite volume , such that it
can have any number of free surface.
State five charateristics of solids?
Characteristics (properties) of solid
Solids have definite shape and definite volume
Solids do not flow , they can be heaped
Solids have very small , intermolecular space.
Solids have large intermolecular force
Solids can have any number of free surface.
On the basis of molecular theory , explain why solids have a definite shape and definite volume?
The molecules in a solid are in fixed position and are closely packed and hence they are not free to
move .So they have definite shape and volume.
Define liquid.
Any material which has definite volume, but no definite shape and has one free surface is called liquid.
State five characteristics of a liquid.
Characteristics of a liquid
Liquids have no definite shape . They have the shape of the containing vessel.
Liquids have a definite volume
Liquids have only one definite free surface.
Intermolecular spaces in liquids larger than in solids .
Liquids have less intermolecular force than in solids
On the basis of molecular theory , explain why a liquid can flow?
In liquids, molecules are loosely packed. This results in more intermolecular spaces and weak
intermolecular forces. Thus the molecules are free to move within the liquid. So liquids can flow.
