About the lecture

In this mini-lecture, we cover Topic 14.1 by using the kinetic theory model to understand the differences between solids, liquids, and gases on a microscopic level. In particular, we think about: (i) the size of an atom and what it is composed of (nucleus containing protons and neutrons with electrons surrounding it); (ii) the Particle Picture of the atom; (iii) atoms forming molecules like H₂0; (iv) the three most common states of matter – solid, liquid, and gas – and their key properties; (v) three examples that show why the difference between a solid, liquid, and gas is not always clear (pitch drop experiment, supercritical fluids, and non-Newtonian fluids), which serves as non-examinable enrichment material to conclude this video.

About the lecturer

Chris Bell is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Physics at the University of Bristol. His research focuses on the creation and control of novel electronic phases of matter in metals, semiconductors, and insulators. Recently his work has centred on low dimensional systems, including low-density high-mobility two-dimensional superconductors as well as ultrathin ferromagnets.