States of Matter

Solids have a definite shape and volume because the particles are held together by strong intermolecular forces.

Liquids have a definite volume because the particles are held together by strong intermolecular forces, but they do not have a definite shape because the particles can move around freely.

Gases have no definite shape or volume because the particles are not held together by strong intermolecular forces and can move around freely.

Solids have the highest density because the particles are packed together tightly.

Gases have the lowest density because the particles are not packed together tightly.

Gases have the highest kinetic energy because the particles are moving around freely.

Solids have the lowest kinetic energy because the particles are held together by strong intermolecular forces.

Gases are most compressible because the particles are not held together by strong intermolecular forces.

Solids are least compressible because the particles are held together by strong intermolecular forces.

Solids have the highest thermal conductivity because the particles are held together by strong intermolecular forces and can transfer heat energy quickly.

Gases have the lowest thermal conductivity because the particles are not held together by strong intermolecular forces and cannot transfer heat energy quickly.

Solids have the highest specific heat capacity because the particles are held together by strong intermolecular forces and require more energy to raise their temperature.

Gases have the lowest specific heat capacity because the particles are not held together by strong intermolecular forces and require less energy to raise their temperature.

Liquids are most likely to undergo a phase change because they are at an intermediate state between solids and gases and can easily change from one state to another.

Solids are least likely to undergo a phase change because the particles are held together by strong intermolecular forces and require more energy to change from one state to another.