Question

Why are gases easier to compress than liquids and solids?

Short answer

A substance can be easily compressed if the intermolecular force is very less.

Step-by-step solution

Describing arrangement of atoms in different states of matter

The arrangement of particles is different in various states of matter. Molecules are very tightly packed in a solid and loosely packed in liquids. Particles are very loosely packed in gases compared to solids and liquids.

Therefore, there are intermolecular spaces present in gases. Liquid has less intermolecular spaces while it is negligible in solid.

Reason behind the high compressibility

Since the intermolecular spaces are larger in gases, particles can move around with high speed and they are able to spread easily. The force of attraction between the molecules are low in gases while compared to those in liquids and solids. This causes the high compressibility of gases.

Thus, gases can be easily compressed while comparing with solids and liquids.