States of matter lab answers, Grade 6 science (PDF)

The method and the results are on the states of matter lab. Do the analysis yourself first, then check the answers below.

Quick answer: The three states of matter are solid, liquid and gas. These answers go with the grade 6 science lab on states of matter: the graph, the calculations, the uncertainties and the conclusion explained, for all 7 analysis questions.

States of matter lab answers for grade 6 science (free PDF download)

Here are the states of matter lab answers for grade 6 science: graph, calculations, uncertainties and conclusion. First do the lab yourself, then compare, and go back to the lesson if needed.

Use the sample table to check your own method. Then, remember that the percentage decrease is worked out from the start volume, and that every measurement has an uncertainty of about half the smallest division.

Level: Grade 6 science (Year 7 · Class 6) · Curriculum: MS-PS1-4

Contents

States of matter lab answers: the analysis explained

Question 1 Mean air volume

(16 + 14 + 15) ÷ 3 = 45 ÷ 3 = 15 mL.

Question 2 Percentage decrease

Decrease = 40 − 15 = 25 mL. 25 ÷ 40 × 100 = 62.5 %.

Question 3 Explain the water result

Water particles are already touching, so there is no space left for them to move into. Liquids cannot be compressed.

Question 4 Reading uncertainty

Reading uncertainty is about ± 0.5 mL. In addition, the air results range from 14 mL to 16 mL, a range of 2 mL.

Question 5 Predict a new start volume

The final volume is 15/40 = 0.375 of the start. 60 × 0.375 = 22.5 mL.

Question 6 Source of error

Air leaking past the plunger or the cap, and not pushing the plunger fully in each time. Also, either one would make the final volume larger.

Question 7 Improve the lab

Repeat more trials and use a clamp or a block to push to the same fixed point; or use a smaller syringe with a finer scale for more precise readings.

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