Question

State the characteristics of molecules of matter.

Answer 1

Hint: In this question, we will understand the basics of matter and molecules. This will help us to get the answer to the question easily. Further, we will discuss molecules or particles present in solid, liquid and gases. This will help in understanding the concept better.

Complete answer:
As we know that matter can be defined as any object or particle which occupies space and has mass. Matter is made of very tiny particles called atoms and molecules. Also, the particles of matter are called molecules.
There are following characteristics of molecules of matter:
- The molecules of matter are very small in size.
- These molecules have spaces between them.
- The molecules are in constant random motion.
- These molecules of matter attract each other.

Additional information:
The particles in solids are closer together than the particles in liquids or gases. Also, the particles in liquids are closer together when compared to the particles in gases.
If we take an example of speed of sound in a different medium which is fastest in solid as the tighter particles are packed in a space, they collide more frequently. This allows sound, which is simply the combined collisions of particles, to travel fastest in solids. So, we can say that sound travels fastest in solids, then water, and slowest in the gases.
Further, in solid the molecules take a definite shape, whereas in liquid these molecules are not packed tightly and in gases these molecules move freely in space and are not packed at all.

Note:
We should remember that matter and mass are not the same. As we know that matter is a general term and it describes any physical substance. Whereas, mass is not a substance but rather a quantitative property of matter and other substances or systems.