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 arrangement. They have a definite shape and volume due to the strong intermolecular forces holding the particles in place.
3. Describe the liquid state: In liquids, particles are still close together but not in a fixed position. They 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. Gases have neither a definite shape nor a definite volume, expanding to fill the shape and volume of their container.
5. Understand the transitions between states: Matter can change from one state to another through processes such as melting (solid to liquid), freezing (liquid to solid), vaporization (liquid to gas), condensation (gas to liquid), sublimation (solid to gas), and deposition (gas to solid).

Key Concepts

Solid

A solid is a state of matter characterized by a fixed shape and volume. The particles in a solid are closely packed together and vibrate in place, which gives solids their rigidity. Examples include ice, wood, and metals. Solids do not flow and maintain their shape unless subjected to sufficient force.

Liquid

A liquid is a state of matter that has a definite volume but takes the shape of its container. The particles in a liquid are less tightly packed than in a solid, allowing them to move freely and slide past one another. This property enables liquids to flow and conform to the shape of their surroundings, such as water or oil.

Gas

A gas is a state of matter that has neither a fixed shape nor a fixed volume. The particles in a gas are far apart and move rapidly in all directions, which allows gases to expand and fill any available space. Common examples include oxygen, carbon dioxide, and helium. Gases are compressible and can change volume significantly under pressure.