NST1501
Assignment 2
(Detailed Response)
Due 17 June 2025
, NST1501 Assignment 2
Due 17 June 2025
QUESTION 1: Fill in the Missing Word(s)
1.1 Define Matter
Matter is anything that occupies space and has mass. It constitutes all physical
substances in the observable universe. For Grade 6 learners in Ms. Thandi’s class in
Limpopo, framing matter through everyday objects—such as the soil in the garden or
water in a container—helps bridge concrete experiences with abstract scientific
concepts (Hein, 2016).
1.2 What Are Molecules Made Of?
Molecules are groups of atoms bonded together. These atomic groupings form the
foundation of chemical substances. For instance, a water ( moleculeH₂O) comprises
two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom. Ms. Thandi may liken this
to a friendship circle where each friend represents an atom, enhancing learners’
conceptual understanding (Hein, 2016).
1.3 Describe the Particle Arrangement in a Solid
In a solid, particles are closely together. The particles in a solid exhibit minimal kinetic
motion and are arranged in a fixed lattice structure. To visualize this, Ms. Thandi can
compare particles to learners seated in tightly packed rows during school assembly—
structured and immobile (Giancoli, 2014).
1.4 At What Temperature Do Particles of Matter Move?
Particles of matter move at any temperature above 0 degrees Celsius. Thermal energy
above 0°C imparts sufficient kinetic energy to particles, causing motion. Even in
seemingly solid objects, particles vibrate in place. This concept can be practically
demonstrated by observing how ice begins to melt once the ambient temperature
surpasses the freezing point.
15. Explain How Temperature Affects the State of Matter
Temperature significantly influences the state of matter by altering the kinetic
energy of particles. As temperature increases, particles gain energy and move
Assignment 2
(Detailed Response)
Due 17 June 2025
, NST1501 Assignment 2
Due 17 June 2025
QUESTION 1: Fill in the Missing Word(s)
1.1 Define Matter
Matter is anything that occupies space and has mass. It constitutes all physical
substances in the observable universe. For Grade 6 learners in Ms. Thandi’s class in
Limpopo, framing matter through everyday objects—such as the soil in the garden or
water in a container—helps bridge concrete experiences with abstract scientific
concepts (Hein, 2016).
1.2 What Are Molecules Made Of?
Molecules are groups of atoms bonded together. These atomic groupings form the
foundation of chemical substances. For instance, a water ( moleculeH₂O) comprises
two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom. Ms. Thandi may liken this
to a friendship circle where each friend represents an atom, enhancing learners’
conceptual understanding (Hein, 2016).
1.3 Describe the Particle Arrangement in a Solid
In a solid, particles are closely together. The particles in a solid exhibit minimal kinetic
motion and are arranged in a fixed lattice structure. To visualize this, Ms. Thandi can
compare particles to learners seated in tightly packed rows during school assembly—
structured and immobile (Giancoli, 2014).
1.4 At What Temperature Do Particles of Matter Move?
Particles of matter move at any temperature above 0 degrees Celsius. Thermal energy
above 0°C imparts sufficient kinetic energy to particles, causing motion. Even in
seemingly solid objects, particles vibrate in place. This concept can be practically
demonstrated by observing how ice begins to melt once the ambient temperature
surpasses the freezing point.
15. Explain How Temperature Affects the State of Matter
Temperature significantly influences the state of matter by altering the kinetic
energy of particles. As temperature increases, particles gain energy and move
