Particles and states of matter
Particles in matter are always moving. In solids they vibrate slowly and stay close; in liquids they slide past each other; in gases they fly freely. Heating makes them move faster, cooling slows them down.
See worked examples
In science class, Zoe asks: When water turns from a liquid to a solid, what happens to the particles?
- They bounce faster and move apart
- They slow down and get closer (right)
- They speed up and spread out
Theo sees a puddle of water that is slowly disappearing. What might be happening?
- A plant is drinking it
- Water is evaporating (right)
- The water is freezing
In science class, Priya asks: Why does fog appear when warm air meets cold air?
- Particles condense into tiny droplets (right)
- Particles float away
- Water evaporates quickly
Tip: Particles in matter are always moving. In solids they vibrate slowly and stay close; in liquids they slide past each other; in gases they fly freely. Heating makes them move faster, cooling slows them down.
Print a worksheet of this skill New questions and an answer key, free.
Up next
- Next in this topic Conservation of mass Fifth Class
Learn it hands-on
- Earth and Sky at Home Grades K–5 · printable lessons
- Kitchen Chemistry for Families Grades K–5 · printable lessons
- Winter Science at Home Grades K–5 · printable lessons
- Solids, Liquids and Gases Grade 5 · printable lessons
Practise without limits
Members practise as much as they like, every day, and get the printable packs and lessons too.