How can we classify matter? States of Matter How can we classify matter?

States of Matter There are three common states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas

Solids Definite shape and definite volume Particles are packed tightly together and held in fixed positions Particles vibrate about fixed points

Liquids Definite volume Takes the shape of its container Example: Milk in a glass vs. Milk in a gallon jug Particles can move past each other (fluid) Fluid – Anything that can be poured Particles move more rapidly than in a solid

Gases No definite shape, takes the shape of its container No definite volume Particles are spread far apart and move past each other rapidly

Plasma Plasma is similar to a hot, ionized gas that conducts electricity Plasma is considered a fourth state of matter Examples: lightning, stars (sun), and neon signs

Changes of State Melting – solid becomes a liquid Freezing – liquid becomes a solid Melting and Freezing Points are the SAME TEMPERATURE

Changes of State Condensation – gas becomes a liquid Boiling – liquid becomes a gas Condensation and Boiling Points are the SAME TEMPERATURE

Changes of State Sublimation – solid becomes a gas Example: dry ice Deposition – gas becomes a solid