Discovery School Video Quiz On "A Matter Of Fact"

The kinetic molecular theory explains the behavior and properties of matter at the molecular level. It states that matter is made up of tiny particles (atoms or molecules) that are constantly in motion. This theory helps us understand concepts such as temperature, pressure, and the states of matter (solid, liquid, gas) by describing how the particles move and interact with each other. Therefore, the correct answer is "Matter" as the kinetic molecular theory specifically pertains to the behavior of particles in matter.

In a gas, intermolecular forces are weak. This is because gases have particles that are far apart from each other and have high kinetic energy, causing them to move rapidly and not have strong attractions or interactions with each other. As a result, the forces between gas particles are relatively weak compared to the forces in liquids or solids.

The distance between particles determines the state of the substance. In a solid, particles are closely packed together and have strong attractive forces, resulting in a fixed shape and volume. In a liquid, particles are more spread out and have weaker attractive forces, allowing them to flow and take the shape of their container. In a gas, particles are far apart and have very weak attractive forces, causing them to move freely and occupy the entire space available. Therefore, the distance between particles plays a crucial role in determining whether a substance exists as a solid, liquid, or gas.

In a solid, particles are in a fixed position but they still have some kinetic energy. This causes them to vibrate around their equilibrium position. This vibration is due to the thermal energy present in the solid, which causes the particles to oscillate. Therefore, the correct answer is "vibrate".

Temperature is the primary variable determining a state of matter. Temperature refers to the measure of the average kinetic energy of the particles in a substance. As temperature increases, the kinetic energy of the particles also increases, causing them to move more rapidly. This increased movement leads to a change in the state of matter. For example, as the temperature of a solid increases, it reaches its melting point and transitions into a liquid. Similarly, as the temperature of a liquid increases, it reaches its boiling point and transitions into a gas. Therefore, temperature plays a crucial role in determining the state of matter.