States of Matter

States of Matter

Solid

• Has a fixed shape and volume
• Particles are closely packed and have a regular arrangement
• Particles vibrate in place but do not change position
• Examples: rocks, metals, ice

Liquid

• Takes the shape of its container
• Has a fixed volume but not a fixed shape
• Particles are close together but are free to move past each other
• Examples: water, oil, juice

Gas

• Takes the shape and volume of its container
• Particles are widely spaced and are free to move in any direction
• Particles have a lot of kinetic energy
• Examples: air, helium, oxygen

Plasma

• A high-energy state of matter where atoms are ionized
• Electrons are free to move about, creating a collection of charged particles
• Found naturally in stars and lightning
• Examples: neon signs, plasma TVs

Phase Transitions

• Changes of state from one phase to another
• Can be caused by changes in temperature or pressure
• Types of phase transitions:
  • Melting: solid → liquid
  • Freezing: liquid → solid
  • Evaporation: liquid → gas
  • Condensation: gas → liquid
  • Sublimation: solid → gas
  • Deposition: gas → solid

Learn about the different states of matter, including solid, liquid, gas, and plasma, and understand phase transitions. Examples and characteristics of each state are provided.