A gas can flow, has no fixed volume and takes the shape of the whole of its container.

Materials can exist in three common states of matter: solid, liquid and gas.

A liquid can flow, has a fixed volume and takes the shape of the bottom of its container.

Water is called water vapour when it is in the gas state.

Condensation is the change of state where a gas changes into a liquid.

Changing state: gas to liquid

Science

In this Introduction to states of matter and changing states unit, pupils learn that some materials change state when they are heated or cooled. In the Properties, changes and separating materials unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn that dissolving, mixing and changes of state are reversible changes

In the Everyday materials unit, pupils learnt to compare and group together a variety of everyday materials on the basis of their simple physical properties. In this Introduction to states of matter and changing states unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to compare and group materials together according to whether they are solids, liquids or gases

This unit explores the properties of solids, liquids, and gases, and how materials change state when heated or cooled. It covers evaporation, condensation, and the water cycle, with a focus on practical enquiries, careful observations, accurate measurements, and presenting findings.

Introduction to states of matter and changing states

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

When water vapour is cooled, what state does it change into? 

What is the name of the process in which water changes from the gas to the liquid state? 

Match the state of water to the statement.  

You can see the gas disappear and the liquid form.  

When condensation occurs, what can you observe? 

What should we change in order to change the state of a material? 

To make a gas condense, you should {{}} it.

Which of these are not states of matter? 

takes the shape of the whole of a container 

takes the shape of the bottom of a container

Materials in the gas state are often __________ and have no fixed shape or volume.  

How could you make a liquid change to a gas more quickly? 

The process when a liquid changes to a gas is called ...

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

Introduction

What will you need for this lesson?

Are you ready to learn?

Equipment

Content guidance

Supervision

Worksheet