Particle Forces in States of Matter

The state of matter (solid, liquid, or gas) depends on the strength of the forces of attraction between its particles. We need to compare these forces.

• Solids: Particles are tightly packed and vibrate in fixed positions. The forces holding them together are very strong. Hence, the forces are maximum.
• Liquids: Particles are close but can slide past each other. The forces are weaker than in solids but stronger than in gases. Hence, the forces are intermediate.
• Gases: Particles are far apart and move randomly with negligible attraction. Hence, the forces are minimum.

Based on this comparison, the forces of attraction between particles are maximum in solids, intermediate in liquids, and minimum in gases.

This corresponds to the sequence: maximum, intermediate, minimum.