Match each state of matter with the kinetic theory postulate that correctly describes its microscopic particle behavior and arrangement.
- Solid stateParticles are held tightly in fixed positions and can only vibrate about their mean positions.
- Liquid stateParticles are close together but have enough energy to slide past one another, allowing fluid flow.
- Gaseous stateParticles move rapidly, randomly, and independently in straight paths with negligible forces of attraction.
Answer
Solid state matches with particles held tightly in fixed positions vibrating about mean positions; Liquid state matches with particles close together sliding past one another; Gaseous state matches with particles moving rapidly, randomly, and independently.
According to the kinetic theory of matter, solid particles vibrate in fixed positions due to strong intermolecular forces; liquid particles slide past one another because they have enough kinetic energy to break rigid bonds while remaining in proximity; gas particles move rapidly and randomly in all directions because their kinetic energy far exceeds any attractive forces.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Postulates of Kinetic Theory and States of Matter