Question

substance x has a fixed volume, and the attraction between its particles is strong. substance y has widely spread out particles and can be compressed. what can most likely be concluded about these substances?

• substance x is a plasma, and substance y is a crystal.
• substance x is a solid, and substance y is a plasma.
• substance x is a gas, and substance y is a plasma.
• substance x is a crystal, and substance y is a liquid.

Explanation:

Analyze the properties of Substance X

Using the States of Matter knowledge point

• Substance X has a fixed volume.
• The attraction between its particles is strong.
• These characteristics are typical of a solid (or crystalline solid).

Analyze the properties of Substance Y

Using the States of Matter knowledge point

• Substance Y has widely spread out particles.
• It can be compressed.
• These characteristics are typical of a gas or plasma.

Evaluate the given options

Using the States of Matter knowledge point

• Option 1: "Substance X is a plasma, and substance Y is a crystal" — Incorrect.
• Option 2: "Substance X is a solid, and substance Y is a plasma" — Correct, as a solid has a fixed volume and strong particle attraction, while a plasma has widely spread out, highly compressible particles.
• Option 3: "Substance X is a gas, and substance Y is a plasma" — Incorrect.
• Option 4: "Substance X is a crystal, and substance Y is a liquid" — Incorrect, as liquids cannot be easily compressed.

Answer:

• Substance X is a plasma, and substance Y is a crystal
• Substance X is a solid, and substance Y is a plasma (Correct answer)
• Substance X is a gas, and substance Y is a plasma
• Substance X is a crystal, and substance Y is a liquid