Molecular motion is a measure of the movement of the molecules in a substance. Molecular motion is substantially different between the different states of matter. For example, the molecules in _______ move more than the molecules in _______.

Question

A.
wood, soda
B.
soda, air
C.
wood, air
D.
air, wood

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

D. air, wood

In this comparison, molecules in air (which is a gas) move more freely and rapidly than the molecules in wood (which is a solid). In solids, molecules are closely packed together and have limited movement, primarily vibrating in place, while in gases, molecules are far apart and move more freely.