Matter is anything that takes up space and has mass. It is the "stuff" that makes up the universe, and it can exist in different states: solid, liquid, or gas.
Properties of Matter
Matter has various properties that help us identify and classify it. These properties include:
Solid: In a solid, the particles are tightly packed together and vibrate in place. Solids have a definite shape and volume.
Liquid: In a liquid, the particles are still close together, but they can move around each other. Liquids have a definite volume but take the shape of their container.
Gas: In a gas, the particles are far apart and move freely. Gases have neither a definite shape nor a definite volume.
From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
Students who demonstrate understanding can:
Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.