Three States of Matter

What are the three states of matter? The three states of matter are solid, liquid, and gas. Each state is characterized by distinct physical properties and behaviors.

Solid

Solids have a definite shape and volume. The particles in a solid are closely packed together and vibrate in place. Solids are not easily compressed and maintain their shape under normal conditions.

Liquid

Liquids have a definite volume but take the shape of their container. The particles in a liquid are more loosely packed than in a solid and are able to move past each other. Liquids are not easily compressed and flow easily.

Gas

Gases have neither a definite shape nor volume. The particles in a gas are far apart and move freely, filling the space available to them. Gases are easily compressed and expand to fill their container.

State changes can occur between these three states of matter through processes such as melting, freezing, evaporation, condensation, and sublimation. Understanding the properties and behaviors of solids, liquids, and gases is essential in the study of chemistry and physics.