Particle Theory of

Matter
Important Terms
Mater: everything around us is made up of
matter
Particles make up this matter (Atoms,

Molecules)
A molecule is two or more atoms
Atoms have weak and strong forces that

keep them together

These forces can be broken. This takes

energy (heat)
3 Stages of Matter
Solids
The particles are as close
together as they can be
The particles are held

strongly together
The particles are NOT free

to move. They can only

vibrate in fixed positions
Fixed shape
Cannot be easily

compressed
Liquids
The particles are close
together
The particles are held together

less strongly
The particles can roll over one

another (free moving, but still

bound together)
Fills container
Cannot be compressed
Gas
The particles are much
further apart
The particles are not

held together
The particles are free to

move
Their shape is not fixed
Other states of matter?
Under extreme conditions