To determine which student is correct regarding the ranking of states of matter by potential energy, we should consider the energy levels associated with solids, liquids, and gases. Generally, the ranking is as follows:
- Gas - has the highest potential energy due to the large distances between molecules and the freedom of movement.
- Liquid - has moderate potential energy, as the molecules are closer together than in gases, but still have some freedom of movement.
- Solid - has the lowest potential energy because the molecules are tightly packed in a fixed arrangement.
Based on this understanding, the correct ranking of states of matter by potential energy should be:
- Gas (highest)
- Liquid (medium)
- Solid (lowest)
Please provide the rankings from each student (Lucas, Henry, Tasha, and Jasmine) so I can determine which student is correct.