Readings

Matter: States of Matter

An article describing the different states of matter and how water molecules can change between the 3 most common phases. The author demonstrates how adding heat to water only increases its temperature if it is not at a phase transition point - if the water is melting or boiling, all of the energy will be used for the transition, rather than increasing the water's temperature. Key Concepts: Phase Transitions, Properties of Water, Temperature, Molecular Interaction

Temperature and Heat

A series of readings on the subject of temperature and the latent heat of phase transitions. Users will investigate the different temperature scales and learn about specific heats of fusion and vaporization. Key Concepts: Temperature, Phase Transitions, Specific Heat

Once you click the "go to the first page" link use the arrows near the top right of the page to navigate through the articles.

Properties of Water

An in-depth investigation of the properties of water and the ways in which it differs from many other substances. Users will learn about water's surface tension, thermal properties, qualities as a solvent, and pH. Key Concepts: Specific Heat, States of Matter, Physical v. Chemical Changes, Surface Tension

This link opens as a PDF file, so be sure to click "open" or "view".

States of Matter

A comparative analysis of the properties of solids, liquids, and gases. Users will learn about the key qualities of each phase on both the molecular and macroscopic levels. Key Concepts: States of Matter, Molecular Interaction, Phase Transitions

This website displays short animations of each phase of matter as well as a table comparing the three side-by-side.

Phase Changes

An experimental analysis of the temperature changes over time in a substance that is constantly heated. Rather than increasing uniformly, temperature will stabilize during phase transitions as the energy is converted to latent heat. Key Concepts: Phase Transitions, Latent Heat, Temperature

At the end of the reading, users can perform a virtual experiment by setting the heating rate and then heating an idealized substance. As it is heated, the temperature of the substance will be graphed on the right.