What are the characteristics of the particles of matter?

Anything which has mass and occupies space is called matter. The important characteristics of the particles of matter(atoms or molecules) are following:

(i) The particles of matter have spaces between them known as inter molecular space. Particles of one type of matter are able to get into the spaces of the particles of other. For example, when we dissolve salt or sugar in water, the particles of sugar or salt get evenly distributed in water.

(ii) The particles of matter are constantly moving as they possess kinetic energy. With the increase in temperature, particles move faster. As a result, the kinetic energy of the particles also increases.

(iii) The particles of matter attract each other. They have force of attraction acting between them. This force helps to keep the particles of matter together. The strength of this force of attraction depends on the nature of matter.This is known as inter molecular force of attraction