NIOS Class 10 Chapter 2 Activity 2.2 Matter in Our Surroundings

This activity explains how gases are easily compressible in comparison to liquids, and it shows how molecular arrangements affect compressibility.

 

NIOS Class 10 Science and Technology Project File

This activity is based on the NIOS class 10 science and technology chapter 2, Matter in Our Surroundings.

Effect of Pressure on Gases and Liquids

Aim of the activity

To observe and compare the compressibility of gases and liquids

Materials used in the activity

   1. A plastic syringe (without a needle)

   2. Rubber cork

   3. Water

 

Procedure

We will perform this experiment in two parts –

1. We take the syringe and insert the rubber cork tightly into the nozzle to block air from escaping. Now we remove its piston to allow air to fill it. We slowly push the piston back into the syringe and observe how air compresses.

2. We remove the piston and fill water in the syringe (closed nozzle) and insert the piston again, and try to push it.

Observation

We observe the difference in compressibility of air and water.

Observation Table

Substance in the syringe	Observation	Compressibility
Air (gas)	The piston moves easily but stops at a point	Easily compressible
Water (liquid)	The piston hardly moves	Not compressible

 

Explanation

Gases can be compressed easily because particles of gases have a lot of empty space between them, and these particles are continuously moving in all directions. Particles of gases come closer when compressed.

On the other hand, liquids are not compressed easily because particles are closely packed and have very little free space between them.

Conclusion

We can conclude that –

   1. Gases can be compressed easily.  

   2. Liquids resist compression.

   3. Compressibility depends upon molecular arrangement.

Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Why can gases be compressed easily?

Answer – Because gas particles have a large space between them, and they are kinetic.

   2. Why can liquids be compressed easily?

Answer – Because liquid particles are closely packed and have a strong attraction force between them.

   3. How does the distance between particles in a substance affect its compressibility?

Answer- If the distance between particles is large, the substance is more compressible.

Related NIOS Class 10 Science Activities

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1	Activity 1.1
2	Activity 1.2
3	Activity 2.1
4	Activity 2.2
5	Activity 2.3
6	Activity 2.4
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