What describes the arrangement of molecules in a liquid?

What describes the arrangement of molecules in a liquid?

• A. The molecules are very far apart
• B. The molecules are tightly packed with no movement
• C. The molecules are close but have greater freedom than in solids
• D. The molecules are arranged in a fixed structure

Answer: (C)

The arrangement of molecules in a liquid is characterized by the fact that the molecules are close together but still have the ability to move around each other. This greater freedom compared to solids allows liquids to flow and take the shape of their container. In a liquid, while the molecules are not as far apart as in gases, they are not fixed in a rigid structure as they are in solids. The attractive forces between the molecules in a liquid are strong enough to keep them relatively close together, yet not so strong as to prevent movement. This unique arrangement is what enables liquids to exhibit properties such as viscosity and the ability to be poured, while still maintaining a definite volume.

The arrangement of molecules in a liquid is characterized by the fact that the molecules are close together but still have the ability to move around each other. This greater freedom compared to solids allows liquids to flow and take the shape of their container. In a liquid, while the molecules are not as far apart as in gases, they are not fixed in a rigid structure as they are in solids. The attractive forces between the molecules in a liquid are strong enough to keep them relatively close together, yet not so strong as to prevent movement. This unique arrangement is what enables liquids to exhibit properties such as viscosity and the ability to be poured, while still maintaining a definite volume.