states of matter

States of Matter - Sometimes also called "Phases"

Plasma:

Ionized Gas = Particles (atoms) are charged

Particles move as far apart as possible

Indefinite Shape (takes the shape of its container)

Indefinite volume (high compressibility)

High Particle Speed

High Particle Energy

Responds to magnetic Fields

Examples: Lightning, Flames, Plasma TVs, our Sun

Smaller dots represent the nucleus of the atom

& the plus signs represent the electrons (outside part) of the atoms.

They move separately and carry different charges. The result are charged

atoms called ions.

Try your luck at identifying different states of matter with this game from brainpop:

*[STATES OF MATTER EXAMPLE GAME]*

STATES OF MATTER PART II: PHASE CHANGES

When the amount of energy present changes, a shift in the state or phase of the matter happens. As energy (temperature) increases matter moves:

SOLID àLIQUID à GAS à PLASMA

The arrow moves the other way if you decrease the energy of the system.

Note that it may take quite a lot of energy to get to a certain state (and it depends on the substance). Water has a different boiling point that rubbing alcohol (very low, which is why you have to keep a top on your rubbing alcohol bottle) or vegetable oil (very high). To get to the plasma state it takes a ridiculously high amount of energy. Usually these energy is represented in thermal (temperature) changes but not always. To get to the plasma state it is usually necessary to change the temperature thousands of degrees higher!

In addition to "states" or phases substances may also go into "phase transitions." It is important to note that phase transitions are physical changes! When you melt a stick of butter - it's still butter! If no new substance is formed the change you are observing is a physical change NOT a chemical Change.

Here are the fancy words that go with phase changes:

If energy getting higher/lower is throwing you off, think about the motion of the particles. Ask yourself: "In the transition process are they speeding up or slowing down?"

Slowing down = lowering energy Speeding up = Substance is Gaining Energy

...And just for kicks:

Ionization: Gas à Plasma

Recombination: Plasma à Gas

Back to:

Chemistry‎ > ‎Chemistry Resources‎ > ‎