What is Matter

Q. WHAT IS MATTER?

• The matter is the basic entity that makes up every object present in the universe.
• The modern classification as per the scientist categorises matter based on its physical and chemical characteristics. 
• Solid, liquid and gas are the three fundamental states of matter based on their physical characteristics. The classification of matter based on chemical characteristics are pure substances and mixtures.
• Matter can be classified into two parameters:

1. The general classification of the matter is into Homogenous material and Heterogeneous material.
2. The more scientific way of chemical classification of the matter is into Pure substances and Mixtures.

• Pure substances can further be classified into elements and compounds (both are homogeneous in nature).
• We can further classify compounds into two parts i.e. inorganic and organic compounds.
• Mixtures can be classified as homogenous and heterogenous types of mixtures.

• The physical nature of matter is described as follows:

The existence of the three states of matter is due to equilibrium achieved by thermal energy and intermolecular forces prevailing in solids, liquids and gaseous phases.

SOLID: A substance is said to be in a solid form when disruptive thermal energy is predominated by high intermolecular energy.

LIQUID: It is an intermediate phase existing between solid and gaseous phases.

GAS: It is the intermediate phase that exists between the liquid and plasma state of matter.

• The chemical nature of matter is described as follows:

1. Homogeneous matter: When the matter possesses both identical characteristics and uniform composition, the matter is said to be homogenous. 

Example: water, motor oil (with a large number of hydrocarbons), iron etc.

1. Heterogeneous matter: when the matter is present in several phases, we say it to be a heterogeneous material. 

Example: a mixture of ice and water, iron and sulphur etc.

• Here, phase refers to a distinct portion of matter with uniform composition and properties.
• Different phases share different boundaries.