Question

The scientists now say that there are actually five states of matter A, B, C, D and E. The state A has a fixed volume but no fixed shape. The state B can be compressed very easily by applying pressure and state C has a fixed shape as well as a fixed volume. The state D is a mixture of free electrons and ions whereas state E is named after an Indian scientist and a famous physicist.

1. Name the physical states (i) A (ii) B (iii) C (iv) D, and (v) E
2. Name one substance belonging to state C which can directly change into vapours on heating. What is this process known as ?
3. Name one substance which normally belongs to state B but whose solid form changes directly into gaseous state.
4. Name the most common substance belonging to state A.
5. Which state of matter makes the sun and other stars to glow ?

Answer 1

1. The physical states are

•   A-liquid
•   B-gas
•   C-solid
•   D-plasma and
•   E-Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC).

1. Ammonium chloride; and the name of the process is sublimation.
2. Carbon dioxide
3. Water
4. Plasma is the state of matter that allows the sun and the other stars to glow.