Question

properties of matter / states of matter (reference states of matter) gas the molecules have __________ and are ________ off each other. liquid the molecules are ________ and ________ past each other. solid the molecules are ________ in a constant __________ state.

Explanation:

For the gas state: Gas molecules have high energy (kinetic energy) and are far apart from each other as they move freely with large spaces between them.
For the liquid state: Liquid molecules are close together (compared to gas) and can slide past each other, allowing liquids to flow and take the shape of their container.
For the solid state: Solid molecules are closely packed and in a constant vibrating state (they vibrate in fixed positions due to strong intermolecular forces).

Answer:

• Gas: The molecules have \(\boldsymbol{\text{high energy (or 'a lot of space'/'freedom to move')}}\) and are \(\boldsymbol{\text{far}}\) off each other. (Common correct fills: "a lot of space" / "high kinetic energy" for the first blank; "far" for the second)
• Liquid: The molecules are \(\boldsymbol{\text{close together}}\) and \(\boldsymbol{\text{slide}}\) past each other.
• Solid: The molecules are \(\boldsymbol{\text{closely packed}}\) in a constant \(\boldsymbol{\text{vibrating}}\) state.