This site has a brief description of the differences in particles in a gas, liquid, and solid. Animated microscopic pictures demonstrate the molecular movement in each state. Information is then summarized in an easy-to-read chart.
By making and testing simple balloon rockets, students acquire a basic understanding of Newton's third law of motion as it applies to rockets. Using balloons, string, straws and tape, they see how rockets are propelled by expelling gases, and test their rockets in horizontal and incline conditions. They also learn about the many types of engineers who design rockets and spacecraft.
Learn about kitchen chemistry alongside Ruff Ruffman. Students can use the videos, games, and activities from The Ruff Ruffman Show to discover how by investigating solids and liquids and exploring heating and cooling, science can help you become a better cook!
Watch a three-minute video about states of matter, sing karaoke about matter, learn vocabulary, and take a quiz.
Kids will have clarity in understanding the differences between solids, liquids, and gases. They Might Be Giants perform a catchy tune to help. [1:22]
Students are given a variety of materials and asked to identify each material as a solid, liquid or gas. They use their five senses ŰÓ sight, sound, smell, texture and taste ŰÓ to identify the other characteristics of each item.
Students act as chemical engineers and use LEGO® MINDSTORMS® NXT robotics to record temperatures and learn about the three states of matter. Properties of matter can be measured in various ways, including volume, mass, density and temperature. Students measure the temperature of water in its solid state (ice) as it is melted and then evaporated.
Students explore how sound waves move through liquids, solids and gases in a series of simple sound energy experiments. Understanding the properties of sound and how sound waves travel helps engineers determine the best room shape and construction materials when designing sound recording studios, classrooms, libraries, concert halls and theatres.
Examine a vapor pressure example using the ideal gas law. [16:02]
Khan Academy learning modules include a Community space where users can ask questions and seek help from community members. Educators should consult with their Technology administrators to determine the use of Khan Academy learning modules in their classroom. Please review materials from external sites before sharing with students.
Did you know the ancient Greeks first identified the three states of matter? Read about how the molecules differ in solids, liquids, gases, and plasma. View photographs and watch how the molecules move in each state. If you're really interested, read about a recently discovered fifth state of matter!
This article assembles free resources from the Water, Ice, and Snow issue of the Beyond Penguins and Polar Bears cyberzine into a unit outline based on the 5E learning cycle framework. Outlines are provided for Grades K-2 and 3-5.
Students learn about the underlying factors that can contribute to Plinian eruptions (which eject large amounts of pumice, gas and volcanic ash, and can result in significant death and destruction in the surrounding environment), versus more gentle, effusive eruptions. Students explore two concepts related to the explosiveness of volcanic eruptions, viscosity and the rate of degassing, by modelling the concepts with the use of simple materials. They experiment with three fluids of varying viscosities, and explore the concept of degassing as it relates to eruptions through experimentation with carbonated beverage cans. Finally, students reflect on how the scientific concepts covered in the activity connect to useful engineering applications, such as community evacuation planning and implementation, and mapping of safe living zones near volcanoes. A PowerPoint® presentation and student worksheet are provided.