MatterSeptember, 2012

A substance that has mass (“weight”) and volume (takes up space).

What is Matter?

Matter on Earth can exist as ___ different phases or states.

◦ Solid◦ Liquid◦ Gas◦ Plasma◦ Bose-Einstein & Colloids (not covered)

All living and non-living things are made of matter.

PHASES OF MATTER4-6

SOLID

Has a definite volume and a definite shape.

The atoms or molecules in a solid are strongly attracted to one another and tightly packed.

Examples:◦ Rocks◦ Desk◦ Apple

LIQUID has a definite volume

but no definite shape. The atoms or

molecules in a liquid are attracted to each other, but not as strongly as those of a solid. They are free to move over and around each other.

◦ Water◦ Blood◦ Milk

GAS Has no definite volume and no

definite shape. The atoms or molecules of gases

have very little attractive force on each other. This causes them to move freely and independently.

The atoms or molecules move apart until they’re evenly spaced throughout the container they are placed in.

Examples:◦ Air (mixture of different gases)◦ Water Vapor (water in a gas form)

Solid / Liquid / Gas Particles

Plasma on Earth

On Earth, plasma is found naturally in lightning bolts.

Also in Plasma TV’s, Fluorescent Bulbs, and Neon Signs!

Most of the matter in the universe is in the plasma state.

Plasma exists at very high temperatures and pressures. Plasma occurs when electrons become temporarily excited!

Stars are composed of matter in the plasma state.

The Sun is matter in this state.

Plasma

Brainpop Video

CHANGES IN MATTER Matter will change

phases when heat is added or lost.

Brainpop Video

• Melting: solid to a liquid (heat is added)

• Boiling: liquid to a gas (heat is added)

• Sublimation: solid to a gas (heat is added)

• Freezing: liquid to a solid (heat is lost)

• Condensation: gas to a liquid (heat is lost)