Matter is the first topic or chapter which is taught in schools when we study chemistry.
Many times a question starts wondering in mind that why can’t we skip ‘matter’ and study atoms and molecules.
Will it matter if we study ‘ Matter ‘ in later chapters of basic chemistry concepts ?
Yes..it matters a lot..
Let me explain you why…
We cannot evaluate problems in mathematics or physics unless basics get cleared i.e. To evaluate or solve mathematical problems we need to know basic operations like multiplication (*) , division (/ ) , addition (+) & subtraction (-) , we should know theorems , algebraic equations etc.
Or let me explain it in more simpler way :
Like Basics laws must be cleared before going deep in complex part of subjects like Physics same as Basics of operations , Number system , Tables , powers and indices , ratio and proportion etc. must be cleared in Mathematics before we go in complex problems.
Similarly ;
In Chemistry matter forms a basic part. Studying and Understanding Matter is initial step while studying chemistry. Studying Later topics will become easy when you understand what matter is , what it is made up of , etc.
So let us learn what is actually ‘matter’ .
What Is Matter ?
Matter is stuff around us i.e. Matter is everything around us. The computer output screen is made up of matter , your computer , table , pen , yourself are made up of matter.Atoms and molecules are all composed of matter.
So now,
Matter may be defined properly as :
Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space (Or occupies some space).
What Makes Up Matter ?
Matter is made up of tiny particles called atoms and molecules. Now since everythhing is made up of matter and matter is made up of tiny particles This means that every thing that surrounds us including ourself and has mass and occupies space is made up of tiny particles.
States Of Matter :
There are 5 states Of Matter.
Solids, Liquids, Gases, Plasmas, and Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC).
We already new about solids, liquids & gases but later Plasma was a new idea when it was identified by William Crookes in 1879. The scientists who worked with the Bose-Einstein condensate received a Nobel Prize for their work in 1995.
What is state of matter ?
In physics, a state of matter is one of the distinct forms that matter takes on. Four states of matter are observable in everyday life: solid, liquid, gas, and plasma. Bose–Einstein condensates only occur in extreme situations such as ultra cold or ultra dense matter.
[ Image Source : chem4kids.com]
Changing State Of Matter :
[ Image Source : chem4kids.com]
Changing from one state to another is called change of state of matter.
Like water at normal room temperature is in liquid at room temperature but heating it changes water from liquid to gaseous (water vapors) state. Condensing Gaseous state will again convert it into liquid state.
How can we change physical state of matter ?
Physical state of matter can be changed in two ways :
- By changing the temperature and
- By changing the pressure.
For example, when the temperature of a system goes up, the matter in the system becomes more excited and active. If enough energy is placed in a system, a change in system may occur as the matter moves to a more active state.
Think about it this way. Let’s say you have a glass of water (H2O).When the temperature of the water goes up, the molecules get more excited and bounce around a lot more. If you give a liquid water molecule enough energy, it escapes the liquid state and becomes a gas.
[ Image Source : chem4kids.com]
By increasing the temperature , a Solid can be converted to Liquid ; and Liquid To Gaseous State.
By decreasing the temperature a Gas can be converted to Liquid ; and liquid to Solid.
………..[Source : chem4kids.com]
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