Question

On the basis of molecular theory, explain why a liquid has definite volume but no definite shape.

Answer 1

Based on the molecular theory, a liquid has definite volume but no definite shape because:

• The liquids also known as fluids.
• The liquid particles are loosely bound with its molecular arrangement due to moderate inter-molecular forces of attraction.
• They do not possess definite shape of its own as they require a vessel to contain and hence, it has no definite shape.
• They show inter-molecular spaces more in liquids but less than gases i.e. liquid particles movable but within the volume of liquid matter hence, have a definite volume.