Matter

Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space. It is made up of tiny particles called atoms and molecules. Everything around us, including the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the water we drink, is made of matter.

States of Matter

Matter exists in different states: solid, liquid, and gas. These states depend on the arrangement and movement of the particles.

Solid

Particles in a solid are tightly packed together and vibrate in place. Solids have a definite shape and volume.

Liquid

Liquid particles are close together but can move past each other. Liquids have a definite volume but take the shape of their container.

Gas

Gas particles are far apart and move freely. Gases have neither a definite shape nor volume and expand to fill their container.

Properties of Matter

Matter has different properties that can be observed and measured. These properties include mass, volume, density, and more.

Mass

Mass is the amount of matter in an object. It is measured in grams or kilograms using a balance or scale.

Volume

Volume is the amount of space that matter occupies. It is measured in cubic centimeters or milliliters using a graduated cylinder or other measuring tools.

Density

Density is the amount of mass in a given volume. It is calculated by dividing the mass of an object by its volume and is expressed in grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³).

Changes in Matter

Matter can undergo physical and chemical changes.

Physical Changes

Physical changes alter the form of matter without changing its chemical identity. Examples include melting, freezing, boiling, and dissolving.

Chemical Changes

Chemical changes result in the formation of new substances with different properties. Examples include burning, rusting, and cooking.

Study Guide

1. What is matter and what are its basic characteristics?
2. Explain the different states of matter and their characteristics.
3. What are the properties of matter? Give examples and how they are measured.
4. Differentiate between physical and chemical changes in matter. Provide examples of each.

[Matter] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• MatterScience • Fourth Grade
• Comparing matterScience • Second Grade