Physics
Answer
Five general properties of solids, liquids and gases are given below:
| S. No. | Solid | Liquid | Gas |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | A solid has a definite shape and a definite size (i.e., length, area and volume) | A liquid has a definite volume, but not a definite shape. | A gas has neither a definite volume nor a definite shape. |
| 2. | The molecules in a solid are closely packed. | The molecules in a liquid are loosely packed. | The molecules in a gas are wide apart. |
| 3. | The molecules in a solid are fixed at their positions. They can only vibrate about their mean positions. | The molecules in a liquid can move within the boundary of the liquid. | The molecules of a gas can move freely in space. |
| 4. | The inter-molecular forces are very strong. | The inter-molecular forces are less strong (moderate). | The inter-molecular forces are weak. |
| 5. | Solids are highly rigid. | Liquids are less rigid. | Gases are non-rigid. |
Related Questions
How do solids, liquids and gases differ in their following properties :
(a) Size
(b) Shape
(c) Density?
Describe a simple experiment to illustrate that molecules are not at rest, but they constantly move.
Give the molecular model for a solid and use it to explain why a solid has a definite volume and a definite shape.
Describe the molecular model for a liquid. How does it explain that a liquid has no definite shape, but has a definite volume ?