The Particle Theory of Matter

What is the particle theory of matter?

It is the theory that everything is made of tiny particles. These particles are moving
all the time, but are too small for us to see them.
What kind of matter is there?

Matter is split into three states: solids, liquids and gases. These types have different
physical properties – different ways of describing how they look, feel and behave.

Cannot be compressed Cannot be compressed Can be compressed

How are the different states of matter different in the particle theory?

 In a solid, the particles are very close together. They cannot move around much,
but vibrate in their position.
 In a liquid, the particles are still close together, but can move around a little bit.
 In a gas, the particles are far apart from each other, and move around freely.

What are the particles in solids, liquids and gases?

The smallest particle you can get of any element on the periodic table is called an
atom. Sometimes, you can have more than one atom joined together. This slightly
bigger kind of particle is called a molecule.