Nature of Matter
Matter is defined as anything that has mass and occupies space, comprising everything from everyday objects to the substances around us, such as air and water. This section discusses the classifications and characteristics of matter, breaking it down into three primary states—solid, liquid, and gas. Each state exhibits distinct physical properties:
- Solid: Has a definite shape and volume, with particles closely packed in an orderly fashion, resulting in minimal movement.
- Liquid: Has a definite volume but takes the shape of its container with particles that are close together but can move around.
- Gas: Neither has a definite shape nor volume, with particles far apart, allowing for rapid and free movement.
Furthermore, matter can be classified into pure substances, which consist of uniform composition (e.g., elements and compounds), and mixtures, which contain two or more different substances that retain their individual properties. This foundational understanding of matter is critical for studying chemistry as it forms the basis for exploring chemical reactions, states, and transformations.