To determine which student's ranking of the potential energy of the states of matter (gas, liquid, solid) is correct, we need to understand how potential energy varies with different states.
Generally, the potential energy of matter in different states is ranked as follows:
- Solids: The particles are closely packed and vibrate in fixed positions, resulting in low potential energy.
- Liquids: The particles are less tightly packed than solids and can move past one another, leading to moderate potential energy.
- Gases: The particles are far apart and move freely, resulting in higher potential energy.
Based on this understanding, the correct order from lowest to highest potential energy is:
Solid < Liquid < Gas
Now, let's analyze the students' rankings:
- Henry: gas, liquid, solid (Incorrect)
- Jasmine: gas, solid, liquid (Incorrect)
- Lucas: solid, gas, liquid (Incorrect)
- Tasha: solid, liquid, gas (Correct)
The correct answer is Tasha, as her ranking matches the correct order of potential energy from lowest to highest.