The three main states of matter are solid, liquid, and gas. They differ in the arrangement and movement of their particles, as well as in their properties.
1. Solid
- Particles: Tightly packed, arranged in fixed positions.
- Shape & Volume: Definite shape and definite volume.
- Movement: Particles vibrate in place but do not move freely.
- Properties: Rigid, hard, and incompressible.
- Examples: Ice, wood, iron, stone.
2. Liquid
- Particles: Close together but not in fixed positions.
- Shape & Volume: Definite volume but no fixed shape (takes the shape of the container).
- Movement: Particles slide past each other, allowing flow.
- Properties: Fluid, not easily compressible.
- Examples: Water, oil, milk, juice.
3. Gas
- Particles: Far apart, move freely and rapidly.
- Shape & Volume: Neither definite shape nor definite volume (expand to fill container).
- Movement: Random and high-speed motion.
- Properties: Easily compressible, low density.
- Examples: Oxygen, carbon dioxide, air, hydrogen.
Summary:
- Solid → fixed shape & volume.
- Liquid → fixed volume but variable shape.
- Gas → no fixed shape or volume.