Particulate Nature of Matter - How Does the Interparticle Spacing Vary in Different States of Matter?
Review the key concepts, formulae, and examples before starting your quiz.
🔑Concepts
Matter is composed of extremely small particles called atoms or molecules.
The empty space existing between the particles of matter is known as Interparticle Space or Intermolecular Space.
In Solids, particles are very closely packed due to strong forces of attraction. Therefore, the interparticle space is minimum (almost negligible).
In Liquids, particles are less closely packed compared to solids. The interparticle space is moderate, allowing particles to move and slide over each other.
In Gases, particles are far apart because the forces of attraction are very weak. Consequently, gases have the maximum interparticle space.
The relation between interparticle space and the state of matter can be represented as: .
Compressibility is directly proportional to interparticle space. Since gases have the largest spaces, they are highly compressible compared to solids and liquids.
📐Formulae
💡Examples
Problem 1:
Arrange the following substances in increasing order of 'interparticle spaces': Water, Iron rod, Oxygen gas.
Solution:
Explanation:
Iron is a solid, so it has the least interparticle space. Water is a liquid, having more space than solids. Oxygen is a gas, which has the maximum interparticle space among the three.
Problem 2:
Why can a diver pass through water in a swimming pool but cannot walk through a brick wall?
Solution:
In water (liquid), the interparticle spaces are large enough and the forces of attraction are weak enough to be broken by the diver. In a brick wall (solid), the interparticle spaces are negligible and the forces of attraction are very strong, making it impossible to displace the particles easily.
Explanation:
The ability to move through a medium depends on the magnitude of interparticle space and the strength of the intermolecular forces holding the particles together.
Problem 3:
If represent the interparticle volume (space) in solids, liquids, and gases respectively for the same number of particles, what is the correct inequality?
Solution:
Explanation:
This inequality correctly shows that solids have the least space, liquids have intermediate space, and gases have the highest volume of empty space between particles.