Account for each of the following properties of solids: (a) the definite volume, (b) the relatively high density, (c) the extremely low rate of diffusion.

a. The molecules of solid are closely packed together

b. particles are so close, hence a high density

c. rate of diffusion is slow due to strong force of attraction between molecules of solid.

Explanation:

(a) The molecules of solids are very much packed together hence very hard to compress and the force of attraction between molecules is strong hence very hard to expand. For this reason solids occupy a definite volume.

b. Because the molecules of solid is more closer than those of liquid and gas. Solids have a much higher density, hence a higher relative density. Density = mass/volume. for solids a huge amount of mass occupies a low volume space. A low volume and huge mass will result in high density

c. The diffusion of solids is very slow due to the strong force of attraction between the molecules of solids. However this diffusion can be made faster by the application of heat. This will increase the kinetic energy of the solid molecules.