States of Matter

The states of matter are the distinct forms that different phases of matter take on. The three most common states of matter are solid, liquid, and gas, but there are other states as well, such as plasma and Bose-Einstein condensates.

Solid

In the solid state, particles are tightly packed together in a regular, three-dimensional arrangement. The particles vibrate in place but do not move from their positions. Solids have a definite shape and volume.

Liquid

In the liquid state, particles are still close together, but they are not in a fixed position. They can move past each other, allowing liquids to flow and take the shape of their container. Liquids have a definite volume, but not a definite shape.

Gas

In the gas state, particles are far apart and move freely. They have no definite shape or volume, and they expand to fill the space available to them. Gases can be compressed and expanded easily.

Changes of State

Changes of state occur when matter transitions from one state to another. These changes are caused by adding or removing heat. The most common changes of state are melting, freezing, evaporation, condensation, sublimation, and deposition.

Plasma and Bose-Einstein Condensates

Plasma is a state of matter in which the gas phase is energized until atomic electrons are no longer associated with any particular atomic nucleus. Bose-Einstein condensates are a state of matter formed at temperatures close to absolute zero.

Study Guide

1. What are the three most common states of matter?
2. Describe the characteristics of each state of matter.
3. What are the changes of state and what causes them?
4. What are plasma and Bose-Einstein condensates?
5. Explain the behavior of particles in each state of matter.