OSAT Physical Science Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Prep

Question: 1 / 705

What characterizes the vibration of atoms in solids?

The movement is large and visible

The movement is imperceptibly small and rapid

The vibration of atoms in solids is characterized by movement that is imperceptibly small and rapid. Atoms in a solid are closely packed together and held in fixed positions by intermolecular forces. While they are not free to move around like atoms in liquids or gases, they do possess vibrational energy, causing them to oscillate around their equilibrium positions.

These vibrations occur at very small amplitudes and happen at high frequencies, which means the atoms are constantly moving back and forth but not relocating significantly from their fixed spots. This rapid vibrational motion helps to maintain the structure of the solid while allowing for properties such as thermal conductivity. In contrast, significant or visible movements of atoms would generally indicate a phase change, such as melting or boiling, where the solid structure breaks down.

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The movement is slow and distinct

The movement is erratic and chaotic

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