The States of Matter and the Particle Model of Matter

Everything in the world is made up of matter. Matter can exist in three states; solid, liquid and gas Adding or removing heat causes the particles that make up matter to react differently to one another.

Heat energy is what activates matter to change state.

Particle Theory of Matter We use a theory called the Particle Model of Matter to explain these changes of state. The particle model has four main points that describe the structure of all matter. Using this model, you can explain and predict almost every combination of solid, liquid and gas. 1. All matter is made up of tiny particles. This means every object in any state is made up of tiny particle too small to see 2. The tiny particles of matter are always moving and vibrating. For solids, this movement is like wiggling in one place. For liquids, the particles slide back-and–forth. For gases, this movement means moving as far as the space will allow.

Particle Theory of Matter 3. The particles in a substance are attracted to each other. 4. The particles have spaces between them. There are differences in the amount of space between particles of a solid, a liquid and a gas. The particles of matter may be attracted to each other or bonded together.

Properties of Matter Matter can be classified using both physical and chemical properties.

Properties of Matter Physical Chemical Shape Color What state it is in at room temperature Boiling Point Texture Smell Flexibility Chemical How easily it catches fire How it reacts with other substances

Description of Properties Drain Cleaner Thick fluid (P) Dissolves Fats (C) Corrosive to skin (C) Blue (P) Hydrogen Gas Lighter than air (P) Odourless, colorless (P) Explodes when spark is present. (C)