Chapter 10, Problem 106A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Atomic diagrams of solids, liquids, and gases need to be drawn to show the reason for two different units of densities.

Concept Introduction: The atomic arrangements of solids, liquids, and gases are such that the atoms of solids are tightly packed as compared to liquids, and atoms of gases are very loosely packed.

Explanation of Solution

The densities of solids and liquids are measured in ${\text{g/cm}}^{\text{3}}$ and that of gases are measured in g/L. Atomic diagrams of solids, liquids, and gases are represented as follows:

  

From the above atomic arrangements, it can be seen that solids are tightly packed as compared to liquids, and atoms of gases are very loosely packed.

Due to loosely packed gases, the volume of gases is very large as compared to solids and liquids. Since density and volume are inversely proportional, thus, the densities of gases are low. Therefore, the low value of densities of gases is measured in g/L where 1 L is equal to 1000 ${\text{cm}}^{\text{3}}$ . Now, mass in per L of gas can be estimated easily but if the density of gases is measured in ${\text{g/cm}}^{\text{3}}$ the value of mass in per ${\text{cm}}^{\text{3}}$ will have a very small value.