Name and describe the three states of matter.

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1. Identify the three states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas.
2. Describe the solid state: In solids, particles are closely packed together in a fixed position, resulting in a definite shape and volume. The particles vibrate but do not move from their positions.
3. Describe the liquid state: In liquids, particles are still close together but can move past one another, allowing liquids to flow and take the shape of their container while maintaining a definite volume.
4. Describe the gas state: In gases, particles are far apart and move freely, filling the entire volume of their container. Gases have neither a definite shape nor a definite volume.
5. Summarize the differences: Solids have a fixed shape and volume, liquids have a fixed volume but take the shape of their container, and gases have neither a fixed shape nor volume.

Key Concepts

Solid

Solids are characterized by their definite shape and volume. The particles in a solid are closely packed together in a fixed arrangement, which allows them to maintain their shape. This close packing results in strong intermolecular forces, making solids incompressible and rigid. Examples include ice, wood, and metals.

Liquid

Liquids have a definite volume but take the shape of their container. The particles in a liquid are less tightly packed than in solids, allowing them to move past one another, which gives liquids the ability to flow. This state of matter has moderate intermolecular forces, making liquids incompressible but not rigid. Examples include water, oil, and alcohol.

Gas

Gases have neither a definite shape nor a definite volume, expanding to fill their container. The particles in a gas are far apart and move freely, resulting in weak intermolecular forces. This state of matter is highly compressible and can occupy a larger volume when pressure is reduced. Examples include oxygen, carbon dioxide, and helium.