Which list shows the phases of matter in order from the greatest average kinetic energy to the least average kinetic energy per particle?

1 answer

1. Gas, liquid, solid
2. Gas, solid, liquid
3. Solid, liquid, gas
4. Solid, gas, liquid

The correct answer is:
2. Gas, solid, liquid

In a gas, the particles have the greatest average kinetic energy because they are moving quickly and have more freedom of motion. In a solid, the particles have the least average kinetic energy because they are closely packed and vibrate in place. Liquid falls in between, with particles moving more freely than in a solid but less freely than in a gas.