Is the density of a gaseous substance larger or smaller than the density of a liquid or a solid at the same temperature? Why?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The density of a gaseous substance is smaller than that of a liquid or solid at the same temperature. This is because the particles in the gaseous state are farther apart due to their higher kinetic energy, which causes them to move more rapidly and spread out, occupying more space than particles in the solid or liquid states.

Step by step solution

01

States of Matter and Density

Densities of substances can vary depending on the state of matter they are in: solid, liquid, or gas. In general, solids have the highest density, followed by liquids, with gases having the lowest density. The main factor influencing the density of a substance in different states is the spacing between the particles (atoms, molecules, or ions) making up the substance.
02

Particle Spacing

In general, particles in solids are very close together and have a regular arrangement. In liquids, particles are also close together but have a less regular arrangement, allowing them to flow and take the shape of their container. In gases, particles are much farther apart compared to solids and liquids and move randomly, occupying all available space. At the same temperature, the particles of a gaseous substance have more kinetic energy compared to particles in solid or liquid states, causing them to move away from each other.
03

Density Comparison

Now that we know the differences in particle spacing for solids, liquids, and gases, we can determine which substance has a larger or smaller density at the same temperature. Since particles in a gaseous substance are more spread out and occupy more space compared to particles in a solid or liquid state, a gaseous substance will have a smaller density compared to a liquid or solid at the same temperature.
04

Explanation

The density of a gaseous substance is smaller than that of a liquid or solid at the same temperature because the particles in the gaseous state are farther apart, providing more space between them. This increased spacing is due to the higher kinetic energy of the particles in the gaseous state, as they move more rapidly and spread out to occupy the available space.

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