CHEMISTRY · Multi-part · CBSE · Chemistry · Matter in Our Surroundings · Matter in Our Surroundings
Problem
An unknown material, Substance Y, is observed at 25 °C and 1.0 atm. A researcher records the following qualitative description of the particles over time:
"Particles remain in direct contact and display a highly ordered arrangement in most regions, but occasional defects appear where rows of particles shift past one another, especially when the container is gently tilted. The overall shape of the sample is maintained, yet extremely slow deformation (on the order of hours) is noticeable under its own weight."
(1) Classify the phase of Substance Y at the stated conditions and justify your choice by referring to at least three distinct features of the description.
(2) Explain why the observed slow deformation under gravity does not necessarily indicate that Substance Y is in the same phase as water at 25 °C.
(3) Based on your classification, propose one practical application that exploits the mechanical properties of this phase and briefly explain how those properties are advantageous.