What is the Particle Theory of Matter?

The particle theory of matter or the kinetic molecular theory of matter describes the

microscopic properties of atoms (or molecules) and their interactions, which result in observable
macroscopic properties (such as pressure, volume, and temperature). The theory can be used to
explain why matter exists in different phases (solid, liquid, and gas), as well as how matter can
change from one phase to the next.

Postulates of Particle Theory of Matter

The postulates of the particle theory of matter are given as:

1. All matter is made up of tiny particles known as atoms.

2. Particles of matter are constantly in motion.

3. Particles of matter attract each other.

4. Particles of matter have spaces between them.

5. As temperature increases, particles of matter move faster.

6. Atoms of the same element are essentially identical and atoms of different elements are
different.

All matter is made up of tiny particles known as atoms.

Individual atoms or groups of atoms known as molecules make up the particles. Atoms are the
most fundamental and smallest part that can exist of an element. A molecule is when two or
more atoms are chemically bonded together.

Particles of matter are constantly in motion.

In the case of solids, the particles vibrate at their own position.

Particles in liquids and gases move from one location to another.

For example –

1. We can smell the food being prepared in the kitchen from a far because the tiny particles of
food vapour mix with the air and move in all directions continuously through the process of
diffusion.

2. A few drops of ink (potassium permanganate) are evenly distributed in the water.
Particles of matter attract each other.
Particles of matter are attracted to one another by force known as the intermolecular force of
attraction. The intermolecular force of attraction varies between the three states of matter.

It is greatest in solids, which is why they are strong and do not change their structure. It is very
low in gases due to which it can be compressed.

The force of attraction is weaker in liquids than in solids but not as weak as in gases. Liquids are
not compressible as gases.

Particles of matter have spaces between them.

In the case of solids, particles are very close to each other and have very little space in between
them.

Particles in liquids and gasses are a little far from each other and have more space than solids.
For example – Sugar or salt completely dissolves in water.
As temperature increases, particles of matter move faster.
When the temperature rises, the kinetic energy of the particles rises, and they begin to vibrate. As
a result, they move quickly, weakening the forces of attraction between the particles. This can
eventually result in a change in the state of matter.

Atoms of the same element are essentially identical, and Atoms of

different elements are different.
Every atom of a given element, such as gold, is identical to every other atom of that element. The
atoms of one element are distinct from those of all other elements. A sodium atom is not the
same as a carbon atom. Although some elements have similar boiling points, melting points, and
electronegativities, no two elements have exactly the same set of properties.

The Properties of Matter

 Solids Liquids Gases

Solids have a definite Liquids can easily acquire the

shape and volume and shape of a vessel, and they have Gases do not have any fixed shape
have a rigid structure. a fixed volume. or volume.

The distance between the molecules

of gases is large (intermolecular
The molecules of solids The molecules in a liquid are distance is in the range of 10  – 10
-7 -

are tightly packed. closely packed.  cm.

5

The molecules of solids The intermolecular forces

have strong The molecules in a liquid have experienced between them are
intermolecular forces. weak intermolecular forces. negligible.

There is much space in between Translatory, rotatory and

They only oscillate about the molecules of liquids which vibratory motions are observed
their mean positions. makes their flowing ability easy. prominently in gases.

Example: Iron (Fe) Example: (H O)2 Example: (O )2

What does particle theory explain?

The particle theory explains-

 The properties of matter.

 What happens when matter undergoes physical changes such as melting, boiling, and
evaporation.

Why is water an exception in the particle model of matter?

Water behaves differently than most of other substances because its particles are less densely
packed in their solid-state (ice) than in their liquid state. This explains why ice floats.

What are the limitations of the particle theory of matter?

The particle theory does not take into account:

 The size and shape of particles

 The space between particles
 Furthermore, the particle theory does not account for the forces that exist between
particles. In the gas state, for example, some weak forces of attraction remain between
particles.

Why is the particle theory important?

The particle theory is useful for two reasons.

 First, it provides a reasonable explanation for the matter’s behaviour.

 Second, it conveys an important concept that matter particles are always in motion.
As a result, the particle model can explain the properties of solids, liquids, and gases.

What is the energy involved in the motion of particles?

Kinetic energy is involved in the motion of particles. When the temperature rises, the kinetic
energy of the particles increases thus, aking particles move/vibrate with a greater speed.