Question
\begin{tabular}{|l|}\hline Question 7 \\ Which statement best describes the motion \\ of the molecules of a solid object? \\ O They vibrate within a fixed volume. \\ \( \begin{array}{l}\text { They move around freely within a fixed } \\ \text { volume. } \\ \text { They vibrate in place and take the shape of a } \\ \text { container. } \\ \text { They move around freely and take the shape } \\ \text { of a container. }\end{array} \) \\ \hline\end{tabular}
Ask by Mccarthy Schwartz. in the United States
Feb 03,2025
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Tutor-Verified Answer
Answer
The molecules in a solid vibrate within a fixed volume.
Solution
The correct statement that best describes the motion of the molecules in a **solid** object is:
**They vibrate within a fixed volume.**
### Explanation:
- **Fixed Volume and Shape:** In a solid, molecules are closely packed in a fixed arrangement. This structure gives solids their definite shape and volume.
- **Molecular Motion:** The molecules in a solid primarily vibrate about their fixed positions. Unlike liquids and gases, the molecules do not move freely or take the shape of their container.
### Review of Other Options:
1. **They vibrate within a fixed volume.**
- **Correct for solids.**
2. **They move around freely within a fixed volume.**
- **Describes liquid behavior**, where molecules can flow but the volume remains constant.
3. **They vibrate in place and take the shape of a container.**
- **Describes liquid behavior**, where molecules vibrate and can move to take the container's shape.
4. **They move around freely and take the shape of a container.**
- **Describes gas behavior**, where molecules move freely and expand to fill the container.
**Answer:**
They vibrate within a fixed volume.
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Beyond the Answer
In a solid object, the molecules are closely packed together and primarily vibrate in place rather than moving freely. This is because the intermolecular forces are strong enough to keep them in fixed positions, which is why solids have a definite shape and volume. Understanding this concept can help you appreciate the differences between states of matter, especially when you consider transitions like melting, where solids gain energy, allowing those molecules to break free from their fixed positions and transition into a liquid state!