Solid Phase

A solid is a state of matter characterized by particles packed closely together with a specific shape and volume. Unlike liquids and gases, solids maintain their form without a container.

In solids, particles resist any movement which gives them their rigid structure and makes these solids harder to compress compared to other states of matter.

Crystal Structure

Crystalline solids have a highly ordered arrangement of particles in a repeating pattern. Common examples include:

  • Table salt
  • Diamonds
  • Metals such as gold and silver
  • Ice

Amorphous Solids

Amorphous solids lack a crystal structure and have particles arranged randomly. These solids include:

  • Glass
  • Plastic
  • Wax
  • Many polymers

Properties of Solids

Key characteristics that define solids include:

  • A fixed shape and volume
  • Cannot flow like liquids
  • Difficult to compress
  • Can be brittle, malleable, or ductile