Science Class 11 - Properties Of-Matter Notes
Comprehensive study notes for Class 11 - Properties Of-Matter olympiad preparation

Properties of Matter
Welcome to the chapter on Properties of Matter for Class 11. In this chapter, you will learn about the basic properties of matter, how matter is classified, and how these properties help us understand the physical world. By the end of this chapter, you will be able to explain the different states of matter, their characteristics, and the fundamental concepts related to matter.
Introduction
Matter is anything that has mass and occupies space. Everything around us—air, water, rocks, and even living things—is made up of matter. The study of matter and its properties is fundamental to understanding chemistry and physics.
Classification of Matter
- Physical Classification: Based on physical state—solid, liquid, or gas.
- Chemical Classification: Based on composition—elements, compounds, and mixtures.
States of Matter
- Solids: Have a definite shape and volume. Particles are closely packed and vibrate in place.
- Liquids: Have a definite volume but no definite shape. Particles are less tightly packed and can move past each other.
- Gases: Have neither definite shape nor volume. Particles are far apart and move freely.
Physical Properties of Matter
- Mass: The amount of matter in an object.
- Volume: The space occupied by matter.
- Density: Mass per unit volume (Density = Mass/Volume).
- Melting Point: The temperature at which a solid turns into a liquid.
- Boiling Point: The temperature at which a liquid turns into a gas.
- Solubility: The ability of a substance to dissolve in another substance.
Chemical Properties of Matter
- Reactivity: How easily a substance reacts with other substances.
- Combustibility: The ability of a substance to burn in the presence of oxygen.
- Acidity/Basicity: Whether a substance is acidic or basic in nature.
Changes in States of Matter
- Melting: Solid to liquid
- Freezing: Liquid to solid
- Evaporation: Liquid to gas
- Condensation: Gas to liquid
- Sublimation: Solid to gas without becoming liquid
Fun Activity: Observe Matter Around You
Look around your home or classroom. List examples of solids, liquids, and gases you see. Try to identify their properties!
Summary
- Matter exists in three main states: solid, liquid, and gas.
- Physical properties include mass, volume, density, melting point, and boiling point.
- Chemical properties include reactivity, combustibility, and acidity/basicity.
- Matter can change from one state to another by heating or cooling.
Practice Questions
- Define matter and give two examples.
- What is the difference between solids and liquids?
- What is density? How is it calculated?
- Name two physical and two chemical properties of matter.
- What is sublimation? Give an example.
Challenge Yourself
- Find out the melting and boiling points of water and iron.
- List three substances that can sublimate.
Did You Know?
- Plasma is a fourth state of matter found in stars and lightning!
- Dry ice is solid carbon dioxide and it sublimates directly into gas.
Glossary
- Density: The mass of a substance per unit volume.
- Sublimation: Change of a solid directly into a gas.
- Melting Point: Temperature at which a solid becomes a liquid.
- Boiling Point: Temperature at which a liquid becomes a gas.
Answers to Practice Questions
- Matter is anything that has mass and occupies space. Examples: water, air.
- Solids have a definite shape and volume; liquids have a definite volume but no definite shape.
- Density is mass per unit volume. Density = Mass/Volume.
- Physical: mass, melting point. Chemical: reactivity, combustibility.
- Sublimation is the change of a solid directly into a gas. Example: camphor, dry ice.
Understanding the properties of matter is the first step to exploring the world of science!
Quick Navigation
- Units and Measurements
- Mechanics
- Properties of Matter
- Heat and Thermodynamics
- Oscillations
- Waves
- Some Basic Concepts of Chemistry
- Structure of Atom
- Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties
- Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure
- States of Matter
- Thermodynamics
- Equilibrium
- Redox Reactions
- Hydrogen
- The s-Block Elements
- The p-Block Elements(Groups 13 and 14)
- Organic Chemistry - Some Basic Principles and Techniques
- hydrocarbons
- Environmental Chemistry
- Diversity in the Living World
- Structural Organisation in Plants and Animals
- Cell : Structure and Functions
- Plant Physiology
- Human Physiology