What are the three states of matter in physics?

In physics, matter typically exists in three primary states: solid, liquid, and gas. Each state has distinct characteristics based on the arrangement of particles and the energy they possess.

• Solid
  • Characteristics:
    • Definite shape and volume.
    • Particles (atoms or molecules) are closely packed together in a fixed, orderly arrangement.
    • Particles vibrate in place but do not move past each other.
    • Solids have a rigid structure and resist changes in shape.
  • Example: Ice, metal, rock.
• Liquid
  • Characteristics:
    • Definite volume but no definite shape (takes the shape of its container).
    • Particles are still close together but can move past one another, allowing the liquid to flow.
    • Liquids have a fixed volume, but their shape can change according to the container they are in.
    • Liquids are less rigid than solids and can flow.
  • Example: Water, oil, alcohol.
• Gas
  • Characteristics:
    • No definite shape or volume (expands to fill any available space).
    • Particles are widely spaced and move freely and quickly in all directions.
    • Gases are highly compressible because of the large spaces between particles.
  • Example: Air, oxygen, helium.

Transition Between States

Matter can change from one state to another when energy is added or removed:

• Melting: Solid to liquid (e.g., ice to water).
• Freezing: Liquid to solid (e.g., water to ice).
• Vaporization: Liquid to gas (e.g., water to steam).
• Condensation: Gas to liquid (e.g., steam to water).
• Sublimation: Solid to gas (e.g., dry ice turning into gas).
• Deposition: Gas to solid (e.g., frost formation).

These three states of matter are fundamental in physics, and the behavior of matter in each state is influenced by temperature, pressure, and the type of substance.