Explanation:
Let’s go through each question one by one, using the passage.
1)
What does the word *properties* mean in the first paragraph?
In the sentence: “Scientists group matter based on its *properties*, or characteristics…”
The word *properties* is immediately followed by “or characteristics,” which tells us it means the same as *characteristics* — things that describe how something is (like shape, size, state, etc.). So, *properties* here means
characteristics.
2)
What are the three forms that matter can take?
The passage says: “The three forms are solid, liquid, and gas.” That’s directly stated. So the answer is
solid, liquid, and gas.
3)
What does the word *vibrate* mean in the second paragraph?
Look at the sentence: “You could see the tiny particles moving back and forth…” and later: “you could see the tiny particles floating around…”
In the second paragraph, it says: “If you were to look at solid matter under a very powerful microscope, you would see its tiny particles moving back and forth.” This motion — “moving back and forth” — is what *vibrate* means here. So *vibrate* means
to move back and forth quickly in place.
4)
What is one difference between a solid and a liquid?
From the passage:
- Solid: “particles are packed together, so they vibrate in place.” Also, “shape is definite,” and “volume is definite.”
- Liquid: “takes the shape of its container,” and “volume is definite” but shape changes.
So one clear difference is:
A solid has a definite shape, but a liquid takes the shape of its container.
5)
Do the tiny particles closer together in a solid, a liquid, or a gas?
The passage says:
- Solid: “particles are packed together”
- Liquid: “tiny particles sliding past each other”
- Gas: “tiny particles floating around with lots of space in between”
So the particles are closest together in a
solid.
Now let’s write the final answers clearly:
Final Answer:
1) characteristics
2) solid, liquid, and gas
3) to move back and forth in place
4) A solid has a definite shape, but a liquid takes the shape of its container.
5) solid
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of matter worksheet 2nd grade.
