Question

Four students complete the table below, ranking states of matter by potential energy. Which student is correct?



(1 point)
Responses

Henry
Henry

Jasmine
Jasmine

Tasha
Tasha

Lucas
Lucas
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Answer 1

To determine which student is correct in ranking the states of matter by potential energy, we need to consider the general properties of the states of matter:

1. **Solid**: In solids, particles are closely packed in a fixed arrangement, leading to low kinetic energy but relatively high potential energy due to the strong intermolecular forces holding the particles together.

2. **Liquid**: In liquids, particles are still close together but can move past one another. This results in higher kinetic energy than solids but lower potential energy since the intermolecular forces are weaker than in solids.

3. **Gas**: In gases, particles are far apart and move freely, leading to high kinetic energy and the lowest potential energy. The intermolecular forces are very weak, allowing particles to spread out.

Based on this understanding, the correct ranking of states of matter by potential energy (from highest to lowest) is:

1. Solid (highest potential energy)
2. Liquid
3. Gas (lowest potential energy)

Without knowing the specific rankings provided by Henry, Jasmine, Tasha, and Lucas, it is impossible to definitively identify which student is correct. If you provide the states of matter rankings from each student, I can help you determine who is correct.