States of Matter

Physics can be fascinating, especially when you understand it. And while that's not always the case, a basic concept such as the states of matter is surely something that most of us can grasp. But while everyone knows about liquids, solids, and gases, not everyone gets to look closely at what happens to an element or compound when they change state. And when I say close, I mean molecular level.

Key Features:

• Simulation-animation-application


• Change atoms and molecules' states to solid, liquid, or gas


• Interact with atoms by bouncing them into one another


• Real-time pressure-temperature diagram


• Reset all parameters easily

Specifications:

• Developer: University of Colorado


• Price: FREE


• File Format: .exe


• Platform: Windows


• Category: Education

States of Matter can be described as a simulation-animation-application, where you have your crudely drawn laboratory that's really just a container. Inside it, you'll find atoms and molecules, which can be neon, argon, oxygen, or water. As expected, you'll be able to instantly change their state to solid, liquid, or gas (sorry, plasma fans) and watch how the colorful molecules react when subjected to extreme heat or cold.

From the program's second tab (titled "Phase Change"), you can add more molecules in the container and more pressure by pushing down the lid with a finger. Put too much pressure on the atoms and (spoiler!) the lid blows off. Don't worry, there's no blood, and you can easily reset all the parameters. Also, you should keep an eye on the pressure-temperature diagram that responds in real-time.

Finally, in the third tab, you can make individual atoms interact by bouncing them into one another. It's easy to conclude that States of Matter is a great application that can make studying physics more fun.