Kinetic Particle Theory and The Three States

All matter is made up of tiny particles and these particles are in constant, random motion.
Moving particles have kinetic energy, thus the name kinetic particle theory.

Kinetic Particle Theory
- Describes the states of matter
- Explains differences in properties of solids, liquids and gases
- Explains the changes of state

Solid state
Fixed shape:
- Closely packed in an orderly pattern
- Held together by very strong forces of attraction
- Cannot move about freely
Fixed volume:
- Cannot be compressed since the particles are very close to each other

Liquid state
- Particles have more kinetic energy than particles of the same substance in the solid state
No Fixed Shape:
- Forces of attraction between particles are weaker than in a solid
- Not held in fixed positions
- Arranged in a disorderly manner
- Can move freely
Fixed volume
- Particles are farther away from one another than in the solid
- Particles are still packed quite closely together
- Cannot be compressed

Gaseous state
No Fixed Shape:
- Particles are spread far apart
- Forces of attraction are very weak
No Fixed Volume:
- Particles have a lot of kinetic energy
- Particles are not held in a fixed position
- Particles have a lot more space between each other, thus they can be compressed