In a solid, how are particles arranged?

In a solid, how are particles arranged?

• A. Particles are free to move and fill the space
• B. Particles are packed close together and maintain fixed positions
• C. Particles are far apart and in constant motion
• D. Particles are not present

Answer: (B)

In a solid, particles are packed close together and maintain fixed positions relative to one another. The strong forces between them hold them in a rigid arrangement, so the solid has a definite shape and volume. The particles may vibrate in place, but they do not flow or spread out to fill space. This contrasts with liquids, where particles can slide past each other, and gases, where particles are far apart and move freely to fill the space available. There are particles present in a solid, so the statement that there are none is incorrect.

In a solid, particles are packed close together and maintain fixed positions relative to one another. The strong forces between them hold them in a rigid arrangement, so the solid has a definite shape and volume. The particles may vibrate in place, but they do not flow or spread out to fill space. This contrasts with liquids, where particles can slide past each other, and gases, where particles are far apart and move freely to fill the space available. There are particles present in a solid, so the statement that there are none is incorrect.