GCSE Combined Science (AQA)

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The Particle Theory

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Bonding, structure, and the properties of matter How bonding and structure are related to the properties of substances

The Particle Theory

3:20 States of Matter
Spec 4.2.2.1
Previous Limitations of Covalent Bonding Models Next Limitations of the Particle Model
  • Most substances can be categorized into one of the three states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas.
  • Examples:
  • Solid: Blue cubes of ice.
  • Liquid: Room temperature water in a glass.
  • Gas: Steam from a boiling pot of water.
  • There are more states of matter, such as plasma, but they are not needed for the exam.
  • The particle model is used to represent the three states of matter.
  • In the particle model, particles are represented as small solid spheres.
  • Solid state:
  • Particles are closely packed and vibrate about a fixed point.
  • Solids have a definite shape and volume with particles in a regular pattern.
  • Liquid state:
  • Particles are close together but can move freely and randomly.
  • Liquids have a definite volume but no definite shape, taking the shape of their container.
  • Gas state:
  • Particles are far apart, moving in all directions, and arranged randomly.
  • Gases have no definite shape or volume and expand to fill any container.

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