Final answer:
Atoms in solids are closely packed with minimal kinetic energy and vibrate in place, whereas in liquids, they have slightly more kinetic energy allowing for movement without a fixed pattern. In gases, atoms have high kinetic energy, move independently, and are widely spaced. Temperature changes directly affect the kinetic energy of atoms, influencing the physical state of matter.
Step-by-step explanation:
The relationship between the spacing of atoms in solids, liquids, and gases and the amount of kinetic energy the atoms possess is fundamental in understanding the behavior of matter in different states. Atoms in a solid are tightly packed in a fixed arrangement and possess the least amount of kinetic energy; they mainly vibrate in place due to the intermolecular forces acting like springs. Liquids have atoms that are still close but with no fixed arrangement, allowing them to move past each other while maintaining contact; their kinetic energy is higher than in solids. Gases have atoms that are far apart and move independently with high kinetic energy, overcoming the intermolecular forces. As temperature increases, so does the kinetic energy of the particles, thus changes in temperature lead to changes in the physical state of the substances due to alterations in kinetic energy and intermolecular forces.