The particle model of matter
Key point
- Matter consists of very small particles
The particle model of matter states that all matter is composed of small particles.
There are three types of states:
- Solid
- Liquid
- Gas
In a solid, particles can be modeled by springs. The strings represent bonds.
- A solid has very strong bonds
- Inter-particle forces are very high
- Particles are in a regular arrangement
- Particles vibrate around a fixed position
In a liquid, particles will take the shape of the container they are placed in.
- Medium-strong bonds
- Inter-particle forces are somewhat high
- Particles are in a random arrangement
- Particles can slide past one another
Gas is the least dense state of matter.
- Gas has very weak bonds
- Inter-particle forces are very low
- Particles are in a random arrangement
- Particles are free to move in all directions
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