Using the kinetic theory of matter, explain the definite structure of solids.
Definite structure of solids (kinetic theory). According to the kinetic theory of matter, the molecules of a solid are very closely packed together in a regular, orderly arrangement (a lattice) and are held in position by strong intermolecular forces of attraction.
Because these forces are strong, the molecules cannot move about freely from place to place; they can only vibrate to and fro about fixed mean positions. Since each molecule keeps to a fixed position within the ordered lattice, the solid maintains a fixed arrangement of its particles.
This fixed, orderly packing gives a solid both a definite shape and a definite volume, that is, a definite structure.
Definite structure of solids (kinetic theory). According to the kinetic theory of matter, the molecules of a solid are very closely packed together in a regular, orderly arrangement (a lattice) and are held in position by strong intermolecular forces of attraction.
Because these forces are strong, the molecules cannot move about freely from place to place; they can only vibrate to and fro about fixed mean positions. Since each molecule keeps to a fixed position within the ordered lattice, the solid maintains a fixed arrangement of its particles.
This fixed, orderly packing gives a solid both a definite shape and a definite volume, that is, a definite structure.