Particle Patterns and Physical Changes

Solid

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• Particles are packed closely together in a regular arrangement.
• Particles are static.
• Particles are vibrating.
• Particles have little energy.
• Solids keep their own shape.
• Caption: Solid particle model

Liquid

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• Liquids take the shape of the container they are in and are easily poured.
• Particles are free to move.
• Particles can slide past each other.
• Particles are mobile.
• Particles have some energy.
• Caption: Liquid particle model

Gas

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• Caption: Gas particle model
• Gases fill the volume available and are easily compressed.
• Particles are spread out.
• Particles move rapidly and randomly collide with other particles and the walls of container.
• Particles have high energy.
• Light particles move faster than heavier ones.
• Pressure is caused by particles hitting the walls.

Particle Models of all three states

Interconversion between states of matter