Question

A scientist recorded these observations about the particle arrangements of the three different states of water. Which error did the scientist MOST likely make? A) The scientist placed the observations for ice in the steam column. B) The scientist placed the observations for liquid in the ice column. C) The scientist placed the observations for liquid in the steam column. D) The scientist placed the observations for ice in the liquid water column.

Answer 1

C) The scientist placed the observations for liquid in the steam column.

Solids have a more ordered particle arrangement than liquids and liquids are more ordered than gases, so the recorded observations for ice seem correct. However, the observations for liquid water are more consistent with what would be observed for steam. More than likely, the scientist placed the observations for liquid in the steam column.