Particle theory of matter
The particle theory of matter (also called the kinetic molecular model of matter) is a theory that all matter is made of tiny particles called atoms. The atoms have spaces between them and they move or vibrate all the time. The particles move faster and move further apart when heated, and the reverse when cooled.
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Solid [change]
A solid has a definite shape and volume. They are always in motion, only vibrating, but their attraction is strong, because the particles want to stay together and so they only vibrate (move in place). If the particles are not attracted to each other, the solid would fly apart. An example of a solid is a rock. This is why you build homes out of solids. In solids, strong forces of attraction hold them together, forming a 3-D structure.
Liquid [change]
The particles of a liquid are farther apart than in a solid. They can move, free to move past each other with no regular arrangement, but are still held together because of attraction. The object does not have a definite shape. An example of a liquid is water.
Gas [change]
The particles in a gas are much further part than in a liquid and are free to move. The attraction is weak and the particles spread out to fill a whole container. An example of this is air in a balloon. Also when you increase the temperature it will make the particles move faster and be compressed enough to make a liquid.
Plasma [change]
The particles in a plasma are a mixture between a liquid and a gas. The particles are free to move, like a liquid, and the attraction is weak, like a gas. This state of matter is not fully understood. An example of plasma can be found in lightning.
Bose-Einstein Condensate [change]
A Bose–Einstein condensate (BEC) is a state of matter of a dilute gas of bosons cooled to temperatures very near absolute zero (0 K or −273.15 °C)
