Liquids: Liquids have a definite volume, but they do not have a definite shape. They take the shape of the container they are in. The particles in a liquid are close together, but they are not as tightly packed as they are in a solid. The particles in a liquid can move past each other.
Gases: Gases do not have a definite shape or volume. They expand to fill the container they are in. The particles in a gas are far apart from each other. The particles in a gas can move past each other easily.
The building blocks of solids, liquids, and gases are atoms and molecules. Atoms are the smallest units of matter that still retain the properties of an element. Molecules are groups of atoms that are held together by chemical bonds.
The state of matter of a substance depends on the temperature and pressure of the substance. Solids are typically found at low temperatures and high pressures. Liquids are typically found at intermediate temperatures and pressures. Gases are typically found at high temperatures and low pressures.
There are some exceptions to these rules. For example, water can exist as a solid, liquid, or gas at different temperatures and pressures.
