Here are the main differences between solids and liquids explained simply:
- Shape
- Solids have a fixed shape.
- Liquids do not have a fixed shape; they take the shape of the container.
- Volume
- Solids have a fixed volume.
- Liquids also have a fixed volume but not a fixed shape.
- Particle arrangement
- Solids: particles are tightly packed and arranged in an orderly way.
- Liquids: particles are close but not in fixed positions, they can move around.
- Movement of particles
- Solids: particles can only vibrate in place.
- Liquids: particles can slide past one another.
- Compressibility
- Solids: very hard to compress.
- Liquids: also hard to compress, but slightly more than solids.
- Rigidity/Flow
- Solids are rigid and cannot flow.
- Liquids can flow and be poured.