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How do molecules behave in different phases of

matter?
Chemistry Phases of Matter

1 Answer

Ernest Z. Share
Jun 29, 2014

The behaviour of molecules in different phases of matter represents a

balance between the kinetic energies of the molecules and the attractive
forces between them.
All molecules are attracted to each other. At the same time, all molecules are
in constant motion, and their kinetic energies increase with the temperature.
At very low temperatures, the kinetic energy of the molecules is low. The
molecules cannot move fast enough to get away from the attractions of their
neighbours. They are “glued” in place in a crystalline arrangement. The
molecules are in the solid state.
At higher temperatures, the kinetic energy of the molecules is higher. The
molecules will have enough energy to slide past their neighbours, but not
enough energy to escape their attractions. The system is in the liquid state.
At very high temperatures, the kinetic energy of the molecules is so high that
the molecules will be able to escape the attractions of their neighbours and
move at will within the container. The system is in the gas state.
You can �nd an excellent simulation of this process (requires Java!) at
https://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulation/states-of-matter

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