Simulations & Videos for

Lesson 1.4: Moving Molecules in a Solid

Accompanying Lesson Plan: Lesson 1.4: Moving Molecules in a Solid

Interactive
Particles of a Solid

  • The atoms of a solid are strongly attracted to each other.
  • Solids keep their shape because of these strong attractions.
  • The atoms vibrate but do not move past each other.

Interactive
Comparing Solid and Liquid

  • The atoms of a solid are so attracted to each other that they vibrate and don't move past each other.
  • The molecules of a liquid are attracted to each other, but move more freely than the atoms of a solid. The molecules of a liquid are able to move past one another.

Youtube ID: TiatTOGuzUY

Video
Heating and Cooling a Metal Ball

  • At room temperature, the ball fits through the ring.
  • When the metal ball is heated enough, it will not fit through the ring.
  • When the ball is cooled back to room temperature, it fits through the ring again.

Interactive
Heating and Cooling a Solid

  • When a solid is heated, the particles move faster and move slightly further apart.
  • When a solid is cooled, the particles move slower and move slightly closer together.

Image
Molecules in a Room-Temperature and Hot Metal Ball

  • At room temperature, the atoms in the ball vibrate but do not move past each other.
  • When the metal ball is heated, the atoms vibrate faster. Their motion competes with their attractions and the move a little further apart.