Which of the Following States of Matter Has a Definite Volume?
When discussing the states of matter, we often refer to solid, liquid, and gas. These three states differ in their properties, including their shape and volume. However, only one of these states has a definite volume, and that is the solid state.
Solids are characterized by their strong intermolecular forces, which keep their particles closely packed together. This arrangement gives solids a fixed shape and volume. The particles in a solid vibrate around fixed positions, but they do not have enough energy to break free from their positions and move around. As a result, solids maintain their shape and volume even when subjected to external forces.
Liquids, on the other hand, have a definite volume but not a definite shape. The particles in a liquid are still close together, but they have more freedom to move around compared to solids. The intermolecular forces in liquids are weaker than in solids, allowing the particles to flow and take the shape of their container. However, the volume of a liquid remains constant as the particles are still tightly packed together.
Gases, unlike solids and liquids, do not have a definite shape or volume. The particles in a gas have high kinetic energy, which enables them to move freely and independently of each other. Gases expand to fill the entire space available to them, making them highly compressible. The volume of a gas can change depending on the pressure and temperature conditions.
FAQs:
1. Why does only the solid state have a definite volume?
The solid state has a definite volume because the particles are closely packed together, and their intermolecular forces are strong enough to prevent them from moving around. This rigid arrangement allows solids to retain their shape and volume.
2. Can a liquid change its volume?
No, a liquid cannot change its volume as long as it remains in a closed container. The intermolecular forces in liquids are still strong enough to maintain their volume, even though the particles can flow and take the shape of their container.
3. Why do gases not have a definite volume?
Gases do not have a definite volume because the particles have high kinetic energy, allowing them to move freely and independently of each other. This freedom of movement enables gases to expand and fill the entire space available to them, making their volume indefinite.
4. Can a solid change its volume under certain conditions?
Yes, a solid can change its volume under certain conditions, such as changes in temperature or pressure. For example, when a solid is heated, the increased kinetic energy of the particles can cause them to expand, leading to an increase in volume. Similarly, applying pressure to a solid can compress its particles, resulting in a decrease in volume.
In conclusion, among the states of matter, only solids have a definite volume. Solids are characterized by their closely packed particles, which are held together by strong intermolecular forces. This arrangement allows solids to maintain their shape and volume, making them different from liquids and gases. Liquids have a definite volume but not a definite shape, while gases lack both a definite shape and volume due to the high kinetic energy of their particles.