Which of the following statements concerning the states of matter is NOT true?
A.
Plasmas are high-temperature collections of ions and free electrons.
B.
Solids are the least compressible due to the more rigid positions of the particles.
C.
Gases have no definite volume and expand to fill their containers
D.
Liquids have no definite shape and no definite volume.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The statement that is NOT true is:
D. Liquids have no definite shape and no definite volume.
Here’s why this statement is incorrect:
Explanation:
- States of Matter Overview:
- Solids: In solids, particles are arranged in a fixed, closely-packed structure, which gives solids a definite shape and volume. They are the least compressible state of matter because the particles are already in a fixed position.
- Liquids: Liquids have a definite volume but no definite shape. This means that while a liquid will conform to the shape of its container, its volume remains constant regardless of the shape of the container. Liquids have more freedom of movement compared to solids, allowing them to flow and take the shape of their container.
- Gases: Gases have neither a definite shape nor a definite volume. They expand to fill the entire volume of their container. The particles in a gas are far apart and move freely, which allows gases to compress and expand significantly.
- Plasmas: Plasmas are high-energy states of matter where atoms are ionized, resulting in a collection of free electrons and ions. Plasmas are found in stars and some types of lighting, and they are highly conductive and respond strongly to electric and magnetic fields.
- Why Statement D is Incorrect:
- The statement in D is inaccurate because it incorrectly states that liquids have no definite volume. In fact, liquids do have a definite volume, but they do not have a definite shape. The defining feature of liquids is that they take the shape of their container but maintain a constant volume.
- Conclusion:
- Therefore, the correct description is that liquids have a definite volume but no definite shape. This characteristic differentiates liquids from gases, which do not have a definite shape or volume.