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What are the three states of matter?

The three states of matter are solid, liquid, and gas.

In the world of chemistry, matter is anything that has mass and takes up space. This matter can exist in three primary states: solid, liquid, and gas. Each state has distinct characteristics and can change from one state to another through processes known as phase transitions.

Solids are characterised by having a definite shape and volume. The particles in a solid are tightly packed together in a regular pattern, which gives solids their rigid structure. The particles vibrate in place but do not move from their fixed positions. Examples of solids include ice, wood, and metal.

Liquids, on the other hand, have a definite volume but not a definite shape. They take the shape of their container. The particles in a liquid are close together but can move around each other, which allows liquids to flow. Examples of liquids include water, oil, and mercury.

Gases have neither a definite shape nor volume. They expand to fill their container, and the particles in a gas are far apart and move freely in all directions. This high-energy movement of particles in a gas leads to collisions that cause gas pressure. Examples of gases include oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide.

The state of matter can change through phase transitions. For example, a solid can become a liquid through melting, and a liquid can become a gas through evaporation. Conversely, a gas can become a liquid through condensation, and a liquid can become a solid through freezing. These transitions occur when energy (in the form of heat) is added or removed. Understanding these states of matter and their transitions is fundamental to the study of chemistry.

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