Chapter 17, Problem 1RCQ

To determine

Four common phases of matter

Answer to Problem 1RCQ

Solution:

The four common phases of matter are:-

1. Solid

2. Liquid
3. Gas
4. Plasma

Explanation of Solution

1. Solids: Solids have definite shape and size. In solids the intermolecular forces between the atoms are very strong.

The atoms of the solids are not free to move however they can vibrate about their positions.

2. Liquids: Liquids acquire the shape of the container. In liquid the

intermolecular forces between the molecules are weak as compared to solids. As a result the molecules of liquid can move inside the liquid. Therefore, the liquids do not possess definite shape.

3. Gas: In gases the intermolecular forces between the atoms are very-very small as compared to solids or liquids. So, the gaseous atoms are free to move anywhere. Gas molecules can move in all possible directions with different velocities.

4. Plasma: Plasma is considered as the fourth state of matter which is discovered recently.A plasma is a hot ionized gas consisting of positively charged ions and negatively charged electrons. The characteristics of plasma is different from gases, so plasma is considered as fourth state of matter

Conclusion:

The four common phases of matter are:-

1. Solid

2. Liquid
3. Gas
4. Plasma