Week 14

5/1/2025


This week we discussed the initial states of matter. As table groups we got to talk about the characteristics of solids, liquids, and gases. My group said that solids occupy space and have a fixed shape. Liquids occupy space and have a fixed volume. Gases occupy space and can be compressed. We then went on to talk about the particle view of a solid, liquid, and gas. This was through a virtual interactive simulation that showed the motion and interactions of molecules when they are in different states of matter. 


The idea of a plunger sticks super hard to surfaces when you push down on it still sort of confuses me. I saw the plunger get pushed down in front of me and seal to the table. The only way for it to peel off was to pull the stick of the plunger to the side to insert air under the plunger part. I understand that it becomes a vacuum with the little air molecules trapped under the plunger, but WHY? (These were my thoughts at the end of lab) In lecture we talked about how it's gravity and that made my thinking a lot more clear. If you are trying to pull up on something that is sealed where the air molecules are pulling it down it just doesn't work!


I really enjoyed the virtual interactive simulations we used in lab and lecture this week. I think it was a great way to deepen my understanding of molecule movement and interactions. Not only were the interactions a fun way to learn from, but the follow up questions were interactive too! I think this would be a super great tool to bring into the classroom to help students better understand science phenomena. 







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