Question detail
How does the arrangement of particles change during condensation?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Changes of state and the particle model
Question
- A. Particles move further apart
- B. Particles become more disordered
- C. Particles become more ordered and closer together
- D. Particles remain in a fixed position
Answer
The correct answer is Particles become more ordered and closer together.
Explanation
Comparison lens: State both sides of the comparison so the contrast is explicit rather than implied. This question asks: How does the arrangement of particles change during condensation. The correct response is Particles become more ordered and closer together, because changes of state are explained by particle energy and arrangement. In Changes of state, the marking point should connect directly to explain condensing using decreased particle energy and closer particle arrangement. If the question includes values, the working must keep the appropriate unit and operation; if it is an explanation, it must name the relevant particle behaviour or energy change. This item belongs to Changes of state and the particle model, so avoid answers that switch to a different quantity, confuse heat with temperature, or describe gas pressure without collisions when collisions are the reason. Checkpoint 149 is distinct because it uses this exact question context and the comparison lens rather than a generic particle-model sentence.
Common mistake
Confusing Condensation with Other Changes
Students often confuse condensing with freezing, thinking both processes involve a solid forming from a liquid.
Clarify that condensing involves a gas turning into a liquid due to decreased particle energy, while freezing is the process of a liquid becoming a solid.
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