Question

Matter in any state is composed of particles. Compare the three states of matter i.e. solids, liquids and gases with reference to :

(a) intermolecular space

(b) the intermolecular force of attraction

(c) movement of particles

Answer 1

Intermolecular space -

• The molecules can move only when there are gaps or space between them, this space is called intermolecular space.
• The molecules of matter are always in motion and attract each other with a force called intermolecular force of attraction due to which they are held together.
• The order of intermolecular spaces are - Solids < Liquids < Gases

Intermolecular forces of attraction

• The molecules of matter are always in motion and attract each other with a force, and this force is called the intermolecular force of attraction due to which they are held together.
• Solids have maximum intermolecular forces of attraction while gases have minimum intermolecular forces of attraction.

movement of particles

• The movement of particles depends upon the intermolecular forces of attraction between the particles. The greater the intermolecular forces of attraction between the particles lesser are the intermolecular spaces between them, and hence, the movement of particles of restricted.
• Due to high kinetic energy and negligible forces of attraction, the particles of a gas are moving at high speeds in all directions while the movement of particles is least in solids.