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Difference between Solid, Liquid and Gas

There are numerous topics in chemistry that we find interesting. Out of these, solid, liquid, and gas is one of the significant topics. We know what does solid, liquid, and gas means in layman’s term. But it is necessary to know the meaning of these terms. As we know, that solid, liquid, and gas are the foundational and basic states of matter. These states of matter are essential in knowing the nature of existence. So, let us begin by knowing the basic meaning of these terms.

Solid

Solid is defined as the state of matter where the atoms and molecules are compressed in a tight manner. The molecules have very less kinetic energy because they are tightly packed. There are two major categories of solid, namely amorphous and crystalline. Crystalline solids are defined as the solids in which the atoms and molecules are in order. On the other hand, an amorphous solid is defined as a solid in which the atoms and molecules are not in order. Some of the examples of solids include wood, gold, steel, brass, copper, etc.

Liquid

A liquid is defined as the state of matter which takes any shape, it is poured in. The liquid is a fluid that cannot be compressed, i.e., it has limited compressibility. The volume of liquid is fixed, unlike its shape. Liquid can acquire any shape in which it is poured. Examples of liquid include water, juices, soft drinks, etc.

Gas

Gas is defined as the state of matter that does not have a fixed shape or volume. The molecules and atoms in a gaseous state can be compressed. Gases can either be made of one kind of atom or a variety of atoms (compound molecules). Examples of gases include helium, argon, nitrogen, oxygen, chlorine, etc. Now, there are certain differences between these three terms. So, let us discuss them briefly.

S.NO.	SOLID	LIQUID	GAS

1. Solid is defined as the state of matter wherein the molecules or atoms are tightly packed. The liquid is defined as the state of matter that can take any shape, it is poured in. Liquids have less compressibility. Gas is defined as the state of matter in which the atoms and molecules have high compressibility. 2. Solids have a definite shape and volume. Liquids have a definite volume, but an unfixed shape. Gases neither have a definite shape or a specific volume. 3. Solids have low kinetic energy. Liquids have medium kinetic energy. But gases have the highest kinetic energy. 4. The atoms and molecules in solids are rigidly attached with one another. The molecules and atoms in liquids are loosely arranged. The atoms and molecules in gases are very loosely and randomly arranged. 5. Solids have less or no space between atoms and molecules. Liquids have more space between atoms and molecules as compared to solids. Gases have the highest space between molecules or atoms. 6. Solids cannot flow as they are rigid in nature. Liquids can flow from top to bottom. Gases can flow in any direction. 7. Solids cannot be stored in any container. Liquids have to be stored in a container. Gases are stored in a tight container. 8. The atoms and molecules are highly attracted to themselves. The molecules and atoms liquids are not that attracted to one another. The molecules or atoms in gases are less attracted. 9. The particles in solids cannot move past each other. The molecules in liquids can go past one another. The atoms in gases can go past one another.