Solids, liquids, and gases are three states of matter, and each has distinct properties in terms of shape and volume:
Solids :
Shape : Solids have a definite shape. This means that they maintain their shape regardless of the container they are in.
Volume : Solids also have a definite volume. Their volume remains constant unless the substance itself is altered, such as by being cut or melted.
Liquids :
Shape : Liquids do not have a definite shape. They take the shape of the container they are in. If you pour a liquid into a round container, it will conform to its shape, and the same liquid will take a different shape if you pour it into a square container.
Volume : Liquids have a definite volume. The volume of a liquid remains the same no matter the shape of the container.
Gases :
Shape : Gases do not have a definite shape. Like liquids, gases take the shape of their container. They spread out to fill the entire volume of the container.
Volume : Gases do not have a definite volume. They expand to fill whatever space is available, and their volume can change based on the pressure and temperature.
Understanding these properties helps us recognize the different ways matter behaves in our world. Solids are generally rigid, liquids are fluid and adaptable in shape, and gases are free-flowing and can expand significantly.