O LevelPhysicsCambridge (CIE)Revision Notes2. Thermal Physics2.1 Kinetic Particle Model of MatterParticle Model

Particle Model (Cambridge (CIE) O Level Physics): Revision Note

Exam code: 5054

Dan Mitchell-Garnett

Written by: Dan Mitchell-Garnett

Reviewed by: Caroline Carroll

Updated on

Arrangement & Motion of Particles

  • In a solid:

    • The molecules are very close together and arranged in a regular pattern

    • The molecules vibrate about fixed positions

  • In a liquid:

    • The molecules are still close together (no gaps) but are no longer arranged in a regular pattern

    • The molecules are able to slide past each other

  • In a gas:

    • The molecules are widely separated - about 10 times further apart in each direction

    • The molecules move about randomly at high speeds

    5.2.1 Solids, Liquids & Gases table

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Dan Mitchell-Garnett

Author: Dan Mitchell-Garnett

Expertise: Physics Content Creator

Dan graduated with a First-class Masters degree in Physics at Durham University, specialising in cell membrane biophysics. After being awarded an Institute of Physics Teacher Training Scholarship, Dan taught physics in secondary schools in the North of England before moving to Save My Exams. Here, he carries on his passion for writing challenging physics questions and helping young people learn to love physics.

Caroline Carroll

Reviewer: Caroline Carroll

Expertise: Head of Content Delivery

Caroline graduated from the University of Nottingham with a degree in Chemistry and Molecular Physics. She spent several years working as an Industrial Chemist in the automotive industry before retraining to teach. Caroline has over 12 years of experience teaching GCSE and A-level chemistry and physics. She is passionate about delivering high-quality resources to help students achieve their full potential.