What are the states of matter?

The states of matter refer to the distinct forms that different phases of matter take on. The most commonly known states are:

1. Solid:

In a solid, particles are closely packed together in a regular pattern and vibrate in place. This gives solids a fixed shape and volume. Solids have a rigid structure and resist changes in shape and volume.

2. Liquid:

In a liquid, particles are still closely packed but can move past one another. This allows liquids to flow and take the shape of their container while maintaining a fixed volume. Liquids have a definite volume but no fixed shape.

3. Gas:

In a gas, particles are spread out and move freely at high speeds. Gases have neither a fixed shape nor a fixed volume. They expand to fill the shape and volume of their container.

4. Plasma:

Plasma is a state of matter where the gas is ionized, meaning its particles have become charged (ions and electrons). Plasmas are found in places like stars, including the Sun, and in certain types of lighting (e.g., neon lights). Plasmas have no fixed shape or volume and are electrically conductive.

In addition to these four primary states, scientists recognize other phases of matter under extreme conditions, such as:

Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC): A state of matter that occurs at temperatures close to absolute zero, where particles behave as a single quantum entity, essentially acting as one “super-particle.”

Fermionic Condensate: A state similar to BEC but made of fermions instead of bosons. It has similar properties but is formed under different quantum conditions.

Each of these states depends on factors like temperature and pressure, which influence how the particles in matter behave.