Matter exhibits various physical properties and exists in different states, known as the states of matter. The fundamental states of matter are solid, liquid, and gas, commonly encountered in daily life. However, there are two additional states less familiar in everyday experiences: Plasma and Bose-Einstein condensate.

Changes in external factors such as pressure and temperature play significant roles in altering the characteristics of matter, often resulting in transitions between states. For example, when solids are heated, their particles gain kinetic energy, causing them to vibrate faster and eventually overcome the forces of attraction between them. This transition from a solid to a liquid state occurs at a specific temperature called the melting point. The melting point is indicative of the strength of intermolecular forces within the solid.

During melting, although heat is continually supplied, the temperature remains constant as the absorbed energy is utilized to overcome intermolecular forces, a process known as latent heat of fusion. Similarly, as liquids are heated, their particles gain energy, eventually reaching a point where they can break free from each other’s attractions, resulting in vaporization and the transition to a gaseous state. This temperature at which vaporization occurs is called the boiling point.

For example, water boils at 373 K (100°C), where liquid water transitions to steam. The energy absorbed during this phase change is known as the latent heat of vaporization, contributing to the increased energy of the gaseous particles compared to those in the liquid state at the same temperature.

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Requirements for this Science Experiment

⦁ Ice cubes ⦁ Beaker ⦁ Thermometer ⦁ Bunsen burner ⦁ Wire gauze ⦁ Tripod Stand ⦁ Glass rod ⦁ Stand with a clamp