Physical State of Matter
Solid: In this physical state of matter, the molecules are very close to each other,
therefore, the molecules are very grouped and with little movement. The forces of
attraction (cohesion) predominate in this case. An example is an ice cube, where
the molecules are very close together and do not move unless the ice cube
undergoes heating (melting).
Liquid: In this state, the molecules are farther apart than in the solid state and the
repulsive forces are slightly greater. The elements that are in this state have
varied shapes, but constant volume. In addition to these characteristics, the liquid
has ease of flow and acquires the shape of the container that contains them.
Gaseous: The movement of molecules in this state is much greater than in the
liquid or solid state. The forces of repulsion predominate, causing the substances
not to take shape or constant volume. If we vary the pressure exerted on a gas
(gaseous matter), we can increase or decrease its volume, therefore, it can be
said that it undergoes compression and expansion easily.
Solid: In this physical state of matter, the molecules are very close to each other,
therefore, the molecules are very grouped and with little movement. The forces of
attraction (cohesion) predominate in this case. An example is an ice cube, where
the molecules are very close together and do not move unless the ice cube
undergoes heating (melting).
Liquid: In this state, the molecules are farther apart than in the solid state and the
repulsive forces are slightly greater. The elements that are in this state have
varied shapes, but constant volume. In addition to these characteristics, the liquid
has ease of flow and acquires the shape of the container that contains them.
Gaseous: The movement of molecules in this state is much greater than in the
liquid or solid state. The forces of repulsion predominate, causing the substances
not to take shape or constant volume. If we vary the pressure exerted on a gas
(gaseous matter), we can increase or decrease its volume, therefore, it can be
said that it undergoes compression and expansion easily.
