Which state of matter typically has the highest density? (Note: water is an exception to this trend.)

• A. Gas
• B. Liquid
• C. Solid
• D. Plasma

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that density is defined as mass per unit volume, mathematically expressed as \(\text{density} = \frac{\text{mass}}{\text{volume}}\).
2. Understand that in solids, particles are packed closely together in a fixed, orderly arrangement, which generally results in a higher mass per unit volume compared to liquids and gases.
3. In liquids, particles are less tightly packed than in solids but more than in gases, so liquids typically have intermediate densities.
4. Gases have particles that are far apart and move freely, leading to much lower densities compared to solids and liquids.
5. Note the exception mentioned: water is unusual because its solid form (ice) is less dense than its liquid form due to the hydrogen bonding creating an open crystal structure in ice.