Particle Model of Matter Study Guide
All matter consists of particles. These particles are impossible to see with the naked eye, so it is
necessary to make observations about visible matter and then use these observations to make inferences
about these particles. When we do this we are constructing a model of particles (not a physical one, but a
visual and conceptual one).
States of Matter
o Compare and contrast physical and chemical changes of matter
o List the 3 main points in the kinetic theory of matter
o Give examples of solids, liquids, and gases
o Compare particle spacing in solids, liquids, and gases
o Compare particle freedom of movement in solids, liquids, and gases
o Relate particle spacing to properties of solids, liquids, and gases
o Relate particle freedom of movement to properties of solids, liquids, and gases
o Explain the phrase “as close as they can get”
o Describe particle spacing as the state of matter changers from a solid to a liquid or from a
liquid to a gas
o Describe particle freedom of movement as the state of matter changers from a solid to a
liquid or from a liquid to a gas
Particle Interaction
o Explain the evidence that shows water particles are strongly attracted to one another
o Compare water-water particle attractions to water-surface attractions
o Compare water-water particle attractions to attractions of particles in other substances (alcohol, oil)
o Explain the interaction of soap particles and water particles
o Describe particle attraction as the state of matter changers from a solid to a liquid or from a liquid to a
gas
Temperature
o Describe how the particle model of matter changes when a substance is heated or
cooled
o Explain how temperature affects volume
o Explain how temperature changes with kinetic energy
o Know how standards are used to calibrate a thermometer
o Describe how a thermometer works by discussing collisions, energy transfers,
expansion, kinetice energy, and density.
o Explain the term absolute zero as it relates to kinetic energy, and compare this to
commonly known temperatures.