Question

Solids and liquids are virtually incompressible, whereas ___ are very compressible.

Short answer

Given the properties of solids, liquids, and gases, the state of matter that is very compressible is \(gases\).

Step-by-step solution

Identifying the states of matter

There are three common states of matter: solids, liquids, and gases. Each has its own unique set of properties, which will help us determine which state is very compressible.

Analyzing the properties of solids

A solid has a definite shape and volume because its particles are tightly packed together and held in place by strong intermolecular forces.

Analyzing the properties of liquids

A liquid has a definite volume but no definite shape. Its particles are in contact with each other, but they can slide past one another. This allows liquids to flow and take the shape of their container.

Analyzing the properties of gases

A gas has neither a definite shape nor a definite volume. Its particles are widely spaced apart and move in random directions, making gases highly compressible.

Answer

Given the properties explained above for solids, liquids, and gases, we can conclude that gases are very compressible. So, the blank should be filled with "gases".

Key concepts

Properties of Solids

When studying the states of matter, solids are often recognized by their rigid structure. They have a unique set of properties that can be beneficial in understanding how they differ from liquids and gases.

Definite Shape and Volume

Solids have a definite shape and volume due to the arrangement of their particles. The atoms or molecules in a solid are closely packed together and vibrate in place, which is why a solid maintains its shape regardless of the container it's in.

Intermolecular Forces

Another important property is the strong intermolecular forces that keep these particles in place. These forces are responsible for the rigidity and incompressibility of solids, which makes them able to withstand external pressure without significantly changing their volume.

Tightly Packed Particles

Since the particles are so tightly packed, solids have a high density compared to gases and liquids. The close arrangement of particles leaves very little empty space inside a solid, thereby making it dense.

Properties of Liquids

Liquids are a state of matter characterized by their adaptivity and flow, which differentiates them from the fixed rigidity of solids and the expansiveness of gases.

Definite Volume

Unlike gases, liquids have a definite volume, which means they cannot be easily compressed. The volume of a liquid remains constant unless its state changes through processes like evaporation or freezing.

No Definite Shape

Liquids do not have a definite shape and can flow to take the shape of their container. This is due to the less structured arrangement of particles compared to solids. Although particles in a liquid are still close to one another, they can slide past each other, allowing for the fluid movement of liquids.

Surface Tension

A notable property of liquids is surface tension, which is caused by the cohesion of liquid particles at the surface. This attribute can be observed when liquid forms droplets or when some objects float on a liquid's surface.

Properties of Gases

Gases are perhaps the most dynamic of the three common states of matter, displaying distinct properties that influence how they interact with their environment and other materials.

No Definite Shape or Volume

Gas particles do not have a definite shape or volume. They are free to move in all directions and will spread out to fill the entirety of their container regardless of its size, which demonstrates the high compressibility of gases.

Low Density and High Compressibility

As their particles are widely spaced, gases have a low density compared to solids and liquids. Because there is significant space between the particles, gases can be compressed quite easily, which provides practical uses in various applications like inflating tires or in pressurized containers.

Random Particle Movement

Gas particles move at high speeds and in random directions. This chaotic movement leads to frequent collisions, which contribute to the ability of a gas to distribute evenly in a space. This property is why the smell of perfume diffuses rapidly through a room.