Atomic theory describes the motion of particles in solids, liquids, and gases. Which statement best describes the particles in a given state of matter? *

This question lacks options, options are:

A. The particles in gases have a fixed position but can vibrate.

B. The particles in solids have a fixed position but can vibrate.

C. The particles in solids are very close to each other but they are able to move past each other.

D. The particles in gases are very close to each other but they are able to move past each other.

The correct answer is B.

Explanation:

Particles are subject to interactions or cohesion forces with others. They can be strong, weak and extremely weak, practically non-existent. The particles in gases do not occupy fixed positions, they are disordered and move randomly, vibrating, rotating and moving in all directions. In solids the particles occupy fixed positions, they are ordered and have no translational movement or rotation, only vibration, that is, in the solid state the particles are held together by large forces that hold them together at relatively small distances. The movement of the particles is limited to being of vibration, without being able to move. As the temperature increases, the amplitude of the vibration of the particles becomes greater so that the solid expands.