Summary

In this simulation, students will have the opportunity to explore on the molecular level how particles move in three states of matter. They will compare two different substances.

Grade Level

Middle or high school

Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students should be able to

• Understand the difference at the particle level of the three states of matter.
• Recognize that not all substances behave exactly the same, but similarly.

Chemistry Topics

This lesson supports students’ understanding of

• States of matter
• Intermolecular forces

Time

Teacher Preparation: 15 minutes

Lesson: 30 minutes

Materials

• Odyssey software

Safety

There are no specific safety concerns involved with this activity.

Teacher Notes

• To complete this activity, you must have access to Odyssey software. If you’re using version 5.1, this pairs with Lab 57. If you’re using version 5.0, this is lab 75.
• There is a lesson built into the software, this lesson is not the same. The software assignment collects students’ responses; this lesson is designed for students to have a pencil-and-paper experience.
• This activity could be done individually, in small groups, or as an entire class, depending on the resources available to the teacher.
• Students should complete the particle models for the three states of matter. A discussion could follow to check for understanding.
• The simulation is needed for this part. You can use either water or bromine for this part.
• You can use the Compare feature to have the water and bromine particles side-by-side for easy comparison.