How does the arrangement of particles in a solid make it a better conductor than a liquid or a gas?

Particles of Matter

• Solids: The particles in a solid are packed close together.


• Liquids: The particles in a liquid are further apart and are able to slide past one another.


• Gases: The particles in a gas are spaced far apart from one another and move very quickly.

Solid substances primarily transfer heat energy through the process of conduction. During conduction heat energy is transferred by direct contact between the particles of matter. Because the particles in a solid are packed close together, it is easy for heat energy to be transferred from one particle to another.

The particles of liquids and gases are further apart. This makes transfer of heat energy by direct contact less likely. Liquids and gases often transfer heat energy through the process of convection. During convection, heat energy is transferred when hotter material rises and colder material sinks.