Grade 7 → Matter and its properties ↓
Properties of matter
Matter is everything that has mass and occupies space. It is composed of atoms and molecules and makes up everything in the universe, including us. In chemistry, understanding the properties of matter is fundamental. These properties determine how matter behaves under different conditions and with other substances.
1. Introduction to matter
Matter exists in different states commonly known as solid, liquid and gas. Each state has its own properties:
- Solid: It has definite shape and volume. The particles are very closely packed to each other and arranged in a definite position.
- Liquid: It has a definite volume but no definite shape; it conforms to the shape of its container. The particles are close to each other but can move freely.
- Gas: It has no definite shape or volume. Gas particles are spread out and move around freely.
Visual example: States of matter
Rectangle represents solid, circle represents liquid, and ellipse represents gas, which shows their shapes.
2. Physical properties of matter
Physical properties are characteristics that can be seen or measured without any change in matter. These include:
- Colour: The appearance or color of a substance.
- Odor: The odor emitted by a substance.
- Melting point: The temperature at which a solid becomes a liquid.
- Boiling point: The temperature at which a liquid changes into a gas.
- Density: The mass per unit volume of a substance.
Density = mass / volume
Example: Density calculation
Consider a piece of metal weighing 200 grams and having a volume of 50 cubic centimeters. Its density is calculated as follows:
Density = 200 g / 50 cm3 = 4 g/cm3
3. Chemical properties of the substance
Chemical properties describe how a substance reacts with other substances and changes its structure. These include:
- Reactivity: How a substance reacts with other substances, including acids, bases, and water.
- Flammability: The ability of a substance to burn or ignite.
- Oxidation states: The ability of an atom to lose or gain electrons during a chemical reaction.
Example: Reactivity with water
Consider the reaction of sodium with water:
2Na + 2H2O → 2NaOH + H2
This shows the reactivity of sodium with water, producing sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.
4. Intensive vs. extensive properties
Properties of matter may also be classified as intensive or extensive:
- Intensive properties: do not depend on the amount of matter present. Examples include density, boiling point, and color.
- Extensive properties: depend on the amount of matter present. Examples include mass, volume, and length.
Visual example: Intensive vs. extensive properties
This line graph shows properties located along a line representing a spectrum from extensive to intensive properties.
5. Observation of the properties of matter
Scientists observe the properties of matter using a variety of methods and instruments. Observations are often made with the senses or special instruments. For example:
- Microscope: Used to view microscopic structures in solids.
- Thermometer: Used to measure melting point and boiling point.
- Balancers: Used to measure mass.
Example: Using a thermometer
To find the boiling point of water, a thermometer is placed in the water and heated until it starts to boil:
Boiling point as observed on thermometer at standard atmospheric pressure = 100°C.
6. Applications and significance in the real world
Understanding the properties of matter is important in everyday life and industrial applications. For example:
- Cooking: Knowing the boiling point of water helps in cooking.
- Construction: The density and strength of the materials are considered to ensure safety and durability.
- Chemical manufacturing: Reactivity and solubility information guides safe and efficient production.
In conclusion, the properties of matter are essential for understanding the physical and chemical characteristics of the world around us. Whether in laboratories or in everyday life, recognizing and applying these properties leads to a deeper understanding of the universe.