[ays_quiz id=”176″]
Class 8 -> Science -> Chapter 7: Particular Nature of Matter (New Course)
I. Chapter Summary:
This chapter explains the particulate nature of matter, which means that all matter is made up of tiny particles. It describes the characteristics of these particles, such as their size, movement, and spaces between them. The chapter also explores different states of matter—solid, liquid, and gas—and how particles behave in each state. It highlights concepts like diffusion, intermolecular forces, and changes of state due to temperature and pressure. Students learn how these concepts explain everyday phenomena.
II. Key Concepts Covered:
What is Matter?
- Matter is anything that has mass and occupies space.
- Examples: air, water, stone, wood.
Particulate Nature of Matter:
- Matter is made up of tiny particles called atoms or molecules.
- These particles:
- Are very small
- Have spaces between them
- Are in constant motion
- Attract each other
Characteristics of Particles of Matter:
- Particles are very small:
- Cannot be seen with naked eye.
- Particles have spaces between them:
- Allows mixing of substances.
- Particles are in constant motion:
- Movement increases with temperature.
- Particles attract each other:
- Strength of attraction varies.
States of Matter:
1. Solids:
- Fixed shape and volume
- Strong intermolecular forces
- Particles closely packed
2. Liquids:
- Fixed volume but no fixed shape
- Moderate intermolecular forces
- Particles can move freely
3. Gases:
- No fixed shape or volume
- Weak intermolecular forces
- Particles move freely and rapidly
Diffusion:
- The process of mixing of particles on their own.
- Faster in gases, slower in liquids, slowest in solids.
- Example: smell of perfume spreading in a room.
Change of State:
- Melting: Solid → Liquid
- Freezing: Liquid → Solid
- Evaporation: Liquid → Gas
- Condensation: Gas → Liquid
Factors Affecting Evaporation:
- Temperature
- Surface area
- Humidity
- Wind speed
Latent Heat:
- Heat required to change the state of matter without changing temperature.
III. Important Questions:
(A) Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) (1 Mark):
- Matter is made up of:
- a) Cells
- b) Particles
- c) Energy
- d) Light
- Answer: b) Particles
- Which state of matter has maximum intermolecular force?
- a) Solid
- b) Liquid
- c) Gas
- d) Plasma
- Answer: a) Solid
- Diffusion is fastest in:
- a) Solids
- b) Liquids
- c) Gases
- d) All equal
- Answer: c) Gases
- Evaporation occurs at:
- a) Boiling point only
- b) Any temperature
- c) Freezing point
- d) High pressure only
- Answer: b) Any temperature
(B) Short Answer Questions (2/3 Marks):
- What is meant by particulate nature of matter?
- Define diffusion with an example.
- What are the characteristics of particles of matter?
- What is evaporation?
(C) Long Answer Questions (5 Marks):
- Explain the three states of matter with examples.
- Describe the characteristics of particles of matter.
- Explain the process of change of state.
- Discuss factors affecting evaporation.
(D) HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills) Questions:
- Why do gases fill the entire container while solids do not?
- Why does evaporation cause cooling?
IV. Key Formulas/Concepts:
- Matter: Has mass and occupies space
- Particles: Tiny units of matter
- Diffusion: Mixing of particles
- States of Matter: Solid, Liquid, Gas
- Latent Heat: Heat for change of state
V. Deleted Portions (CBSE 2025-2026 as per rationalization of NCERT books):
No portions have been deleted from this chapter as per the rationalized NCERT textbooks.
VI. Chapter-Wise Marks Bifurcation (Estimated – CBSE 2025-2026):
| Unit/Chapter | Estimated Marks | Type of Questions Typically Asked |
|---|---|---|
| Chapter 7: Particular Nature of Matter | 6-8 Marks | MCQs, Short Answer, Long Answer |
VII. Previous Year Questions (PYQs):
- 2019 (1 Mark): What is matter?
- 2020 (3 Marks): Explain diffusion.
- 2021 (5 Marks): Describe states of matter.
VIII. Real-World Application Examples to Connect with Topics:
- Perfume spreading: Example of diffusion.
- Drying clothes: Evaporation.
- Ice melting: Change of state.
IX. Student Tips & Strategies for Success (Class-Specific):
- Time Management: Focus on states and properties.
- Exam Preparation: Learn examples and definitions.
- Tip: Use diagrams and flowcharts.
X. Career Guidance & Exploration (Class-Specific):
For Class 8, awareness level:
- Related fields:
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Material Science
- Future careers:
- Scientist
- Chemist
- Engineer
XI. Important Notes:
- Matter is made of tiny particles.
- Understand states and changes clearly.
- Practice examples for better understanding.
- Refer to NCERT/CBSE for updates.


