Science Common Sense

1037 - What is the difference between a solid, liquid, and gas?

Imagine you have water.

• Solid: When water is in the form of ice, it's a solid. Its particles are close together and don't move much, so it keeps its shape.
• Liquid: When the ice melts, it becomes water - a liquid. Its particles are close, but they can move a bit, so it can change shape and flow.
• Gas: When you boil water, it turns into steam - a gas. Its particles are very far apart and move really fast, so it can spread out and fill a room.