The Particle Theory of Matter is a theory that scientists have used for decades to help explain how and why matter reacts the way it does to temperature and to other matter; however, it is important to note that it IS a THEORY. The definition of a THEORY is as follows:
"When used in non-scientific context, the word “theory” implies that something is unproven or speculative. As used in science, however, a theory is an explanation or model based on observation, experimentation, and reasoning, especially one that has been tested and confirmed as a general principle helping to explain and predict natural phenomena."1
So, based on decades of observation and experimentation, the Particle Theory is a valid context for understanding matter and its behaviour. The problem is, we can't actually 'see' the particles moving and vibrating, we just simply theorize that they are there, acting in a certain way because it makes sense. Note that the word, "Particle" can refer to a molecule, atom, or even an ion (smaller part of an atom).
Basic principles behind the Particle Theory are:
1) All matter is made up of extremely tiny particles.
2) These tiny particles move and vibrate continuously carrying kinetic energy (energy of motion)
3) Adding heat to these particles cause an increase in energy which causes the particles' movement to increase
This means: the more heat, the more the particles move.
4) Particles have different levels of attraction with each other and stay together with chemical bonds (Like how + and - magnets may attract)
5) When particles move more because of heat, they need more space and their bonds weaken. Particles spread apart.
6) Particles of different pure substances are different from one another!
Watch the video below. The first one is the most interesting and gives you a good overview of the principles behind the Particle Theory of Matter. The second one is a dramatization.
"When used in non-scientific context, the word “theory” implies that something is unproven or speculative. As used in science, however, a theory is an explanation or model based on observation, experimentation, and reasoning, especially one that has been tested and confirmed as a general principle helping to explain and predict natural phenomena."1
So, based on decades of observation and experimentation, the Particle Theory is a valid context for understanding matter and its behaviour. The problem is, we can't actually 'see' the particles moving and vibrating, we just simply theorize that they are there, acting in a certain way because it makes sense. Note that the word, "Particle" can refer to a molecule, atom, or even an ion (smaller part of an atom).
Basic principles behind the Particle Theory are:
1) All matter is made up of extremely tiny particles.
2) These tiny particles move and vibrate continuously carrying kinetic energy (energy of motion)
3) Adding heat to these particles cause an increase in energy which causes the particles' movement to increase
This means: the more heat, the more the particles move.
4) Particles have different levels of attraction with each other and stay together with chemical bonds (Like how + and - magnets may attract)
5) When particles move more because of heat, they need more space and their bonds weaken. Particles spread apart.
6) Particles of different pure substances are different from one another!
Watch the video below. The first one is the most interesting and gives you a good overview of the principles behind the Particle Theory of Matter. The second one is a dramatization.
I found my favorite series of Science videos, "Eureka". They are animated, short, and descriptive and of course, they are on Youtube! Watch this series in order here....
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| More of this series to come in future lessons. Hope you enjoyed them! |