States of Matter

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Compare the two models Look at the spacing – the colors – the arrangement Look at any other features Which of the two models is the better representation of each state?

Solids Definite SHAPE Definite VOLUME Closest spacing Vibrate in place Examples: ice, rock, etc. This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-ND This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA-NC

Liquids Indefinite SHAPE Definite VOLUME Close spacing Can slide past each other Examples: liquid water, alcohol This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA

Gases Indefinite SHAPE Indefinite VOLUME Greatest spacing Will expand to fill available space Can be compressed Examples: air, helium This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA-NC

Plasma – ionized gas Indefinite SHAPE Indefinite VOLUME Greatest spacing Expands to fill space Examples: lightning, stars, florescent lights This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA