A solid is one of the three main states of matter, along with liquid and gas. Solids have a definite shape and volume. The particles in a solid are closely packed together and vibrate in place. They have a strong attraction to each other, which keeps them in a fixed position.
Properties of Solids:
Definite shape: Solids maintain their shape and do not flow like liquids.
Definite volume: Solids have a fixed volume and do not change their volume easily.
Strong intermolecular forces: The particles in a solid are held together by strong forces, which make them difficult to separate.
Low compressibility: Solids are difficult to compress because the particles are already close together.
High density: Solids are usually denser than liquids and gases because of the close packing of particles.
History and Nature of Science: A student should understand the history and nature of science. A student who meets the content standard should:
Develop an understanding that historical perspectives of scientific explanations demonstrate that scientific knowledge changes over time, building on prior knowledge.
Develop an understanding that scientific knowledge is ongoing and subject to change as new evidence becomes available through experimental and/or observational confirmation(s).