The particle theory

The particle theory of matter

The particle theory states

  • All matter is made up of particles.
  • All particles are attracted to one another.
  • All particles are constantly moving.
  • Temperature is a measure of the average speed of the particles.

This theory can be used to help explain some of the properties of matter.
 

The Properties of Solids, Liquids and Gases and the Particle Theory

  Solid Liquid Gas
Properties
  • fixed shape
  • fixed volume
  • cannot be compressed
  • no diffusion*
  • variable shape
  • fixed volume
  • cannot be compressed
  • slow diffusion*
 variable shape
variable volume
can be compressed
rapid diffusion*
Beaker  Beaker with solid  Beaker with liquid  Beaker with gas

Conical
flask

  Conical flask with solid  Conical flask with liquid  Conical flask with gas

Particle
theory

The particles are close together and are vibrating in fixed positions.

 The particles are close together and are moving slowly over one another. The particles are far apart and are moving quickly past one another.

 * Diffusion is the random movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.