States of Matter: Solid, Liquid, and Gas

States of matter refer to the different forms that matter can take. The three primary states are solid, liquid, and gas.

* Solid: Particles are tightly packed together in a fixed position, giving the substance a definite shape and volume. Examples include ice, wood, and metal.

* Liquid: Particles are close together but not fixed in place, allowing the substance to flow and take the shape of its container. Examples include water, milk, and oil.

* Gas: Particles are far apart and move freely, occupying the entire available space. Examples include air, helium, and carbon dioxide.

The state of matter depends on the temperature and pressure of the substance. By changing these conditions, it is possible to convert a substance from one state to another. For instance, heating ice can turn it into liquid water, and further heating can turn the water into water vapor.