Describe the three common states of matter, explaining their properties and giving examples.

The three common states of matter are solids, liquids, and gases.

• Solids have a definite shape and a definite volume. Their particles are tightly packed and vibrate in fixed positions. Example: Ice.
• Liquids have a definite volume but no definite shape; they take the shape of their container. Their particles are close together but can move past each other. Example: Water.
• Gases have no definite shape and no definite volume; they expand to fill their container. Their particles are far apart and move randomly and rapidly. Example: Steam.