Edexcel iGCSE Physics -5.10P Particle Model of Solids, Liquids, and Gases- Study Notes- New Syllabus
Edexcel iGCSE Physics -5.10P Particle Model of Solids, Liquids, and Gases- Study Notes- New syllabus
Edexcel iGCSE Physics -5.10P Particle Model of Solids, Liquids, and Gases- Study Notes -Edexcel iGCSE Physics – per latest Syllabus.
Key Concepts:
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Particle Arrangement and Motion in Solids, Liquids and Gases
All matter is made up of tiny particles. The arrangement of these particles and how they move explains the different properties of solids, liquids, and gases.
Particles in Solids
Arrangement
- Particles are packed very closely together.
- They are arranged in a regular, fixed pattern.
- Strong forces act between the particles.
Motion
- Particles cannot move from place to place.
- They vibrate about fixed positions.
Resulting properties
- Solids have a fixed shape and fixed volume.
- They are not easily compressed.
Particles in Liquids
Arrangement
- Particles are close together but not in fixed positions.
- The arrangement is irregular.
- Forces between particles are weaker than in solids.
Motion
- Particles move randomly.
- They can slide past one another.
Resulting properties
- Liquids have a fixed volume but no fixed shape.
- They flow and take the shape of their container.
Particles in Gases
Arrangement
- Particles are far apart.
- There is no regular arrangement.
- Forces between particles are very weak.
Motion
- Particles move rapidly and randomly in all directions.
- They collide with each other and the container walls.
Resulting properties
- Gases have no fixed shape or volume.
- They can be compressed easily.
Comparison of Solids, Liquids and Gases
| State | Particle Arrangement | Particle Motion |
|---|---|---|
| Solid | Closely packed, regular | Vibrate in fixed positions |
| Liquid | Close together, irregular | Move randomly, slide past |
| Gas | Far apart, random | Move rapidly and randomly |
Key Idea
- States of matter differ due to particle arrangement and motion.
- Heating increases particle motion.
- Changes of state occur when particle energy changes.
Important Points to Remember
- Particles are always moving.
- Forces between particles decrease from solid → liquid → gas.
- The particle model explains physical properties.
Example
Explain why a solid has a fixed shape but a liquid does not.
▶️ Answer / Explanation
In a solid, particles are held in fixed positions by strong forces.
In a liquid, particles can move past each other because the forces are weaker.
Example
Explain why gases are easily compressed compared to liquids.
▶️ Answer / Explanation
Gas particles are far apart with lots of empty space between them.
This allows them to be pushed closer together.