States of Matter

First, what do we know about matter already?

Matter is anything that takes up space. Matter is made up of particles called atoms and molecules. Particles are always moving, even when we can’t see them!

Solids Molecules are hardly moving; They are vibrating. Molecules are closely packed together Molecules are fixed in a definite shape

Liquids Molecules are moving at a ‘medium’ speed. Molecules are somewhat spead apart. Atoms take the shape of the container they are in.

Gases Atoms are moving very fast, and colliding with each other. Gases expand as far as they can; they do not have a special shape.

Plasma Atoms are moving so fast, they break each other apart!

How does matter change from one state to another?

How do we get from one state of matter to the next?

Key Terms  Matter  Solid  Liquid  Gas  Plasma  Condensation  Evaporation  freezing  Melting