The properties of a substance are the properties of a huge number of particles together. Unlike particles in other states of matter, atoms and molecules in a solid often assume regular arrangements ( crystals ). Atoms and molecules in most solids are packed together more closely than in the other states of matter (with some exceptions). The particles in the diagrams could be atoms, molecules or ions depending on the type of substance, egĪ single particle does not have the properties of the material it is part of. A solid is a form of matter that has a defined shape and volume. In our early days of schooling, we have learnt that matter exists in three states solid, liquid and gas. The model can be used to explain the physical properties of solids, liquids and gases. Solid-state is nothing but one of the states of matter. Yet, precisely such a phenomenon is possible in the realm of quantum physics, where matter can display behaviors that seem mutually exclusive. It is difficult to imagine that substances could simultaneously exhibit properties of two of these states. It describes the arrangement, movement and energy of particles in a substance. Solid, liquid or gas we encounter these three classic states of matter every day. The particle model represents particles by small, solid spheres. The three states of matter are solid, liquid and gas.

What is solid matter