Solids, liquids and gases

Question 1

Describe the structure of a solid.

Answer 1

• Molecules are regularly arranged
• Packed closely together
• Strong electrostatic forces of attraction holding them in fixed positions
• Vibrate about fixed positions

Question 2

Describe the structure of a liquid.

Answer 2

• Atoms very close together
• More KE than solids
• Can change position and flow past each other

Question 3

Describe the structure of a gas.

Answer 3

• More KE than liquids
• Much further apart
• Free to move past each other
• Negligible electrostatic forces between them unless they collide
• Move randomly with different speeds in different directions