Solid, liquid and gas
Solids
A solid is a non-fluid that has a secure shape. It's particles are constantly touching and do not move due to weak interparticle forces. Interparticle force: A force that like gravity attracts particles towards it. The stronger the force the more restricted movement. Key properties:
- fixed shape
- fixed volume
Properties
Solids are sorted within 2 categories: metals and non-metals There are 5 main characteristics that can define between these types.
Solubility: If a solid is soluble it is able to dissolve within a liquid, sugar dissolves in water, herby making it soluble. On the other hand, a sand particle will not generally dissolve in a liquid. However, it can depend on if a liquid is strongly acidic or alkaline.
Strength: Metals are generally very sturdy when in solid formation, as the case for some non-metals such as concrete. Strength is the ability to withstand force or pressure.
Hardness: Similar to strength, but is a measure of how easy it is for a solid to be scratched. Diamonds are very strong, but have low hardness.
Fluids
Fluids do not have a fixed shape, but unlike gas liquid has a fixed volume.
| Solid | Liquid | Gas | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shape | Fixed | Unstable | Unstable |
| Volume | Fixed | Fixed | Unstable |
Pressure of fluids
- When gas moves collisions occur between the particles and the sides of the container occupied. Gas pressure is a measure of the average force of collisions over the surface area of the containers sides.
