What is the difference between liquid water and water vapor?
A: They are different states of the same pure substance
B: They are different types of chemical compounds.
C: They differ in there number and types of atoms
D: They have different arrangements of atoms in there molecules
A: They are different states of the same pure substance.
The correct answer is A: They are different states of the same pure substance.
To understand the difference between liquid water and water vapor, we need to understand the concept of states of matter. Matter can exist in different physical states - solid, liquid, or gas - depending on its temperature and pressure.
In the case of water, at normal conditions (room temperature and atmospheric pressure), water exists in its liquid state. In this state, water molecules are closely packed together, with weaker intermolecular forces allowing them to flow and take the shape of their container.
On the other hand, when water is heated, it gains energy and its temperature increases. Eventually, it reaches its boiling point (100 degrees Celsius or 212 degrees Fahrenheit at sea level), and the intermolecular forces become weak enough to break the liquid bonds. At this point, water transitions from the liquid state to the gaseous state, forming water vapor. In the water vapor state, the individual water molecules have enough energy to move freely and separate from each other, thus occupying a larger volume.
It's important to remember that both liquid water and water vapor are made up of the same substance - H2O molecules. The only difference between them is the arrangement and proximity of these molecules due to the differences in intermolecular forces. This means that liquid water can evaporate and turn into water vapor, while water vapor can condense and turn back into liquid water, as long as the appropriate changes in temperature and pressure occur.