To determine which student is correct regarding the ranking of states of matter by potential energy, we need to consider the characteristics of each state.
- Solid: Particles are closely packed together and have strong intermolecular forces, resulting in low potential energy.
- Liquid: Particles are less tightly packed than in a solid and can move around more freely, resulting in higher potential energy than solids but lower than gases.
- Gas: Particles are far apart and move freely with weak intermolecular forces, resulting in high potential energy.
Based on this understanding, the correct ranking from lowest to highest potential energy is:
- Solid (lowest)
- Liquid
- Gas (highest)
Looking at the students' rankings:
- Henry: gas, liquid, solid (incorrect)
- Jasmine: gas, solid, liquid (incorrect)
- Lucas: solid, gas, liquid (incorrect)
- Tasha: solid, liquid, gas (correct)
Therefore, the student who is correct is Tasha.
13 answers