Question

How do you distinguish between solid, liquid and gaseous states?

Answer 1

Solid	Liquid	Gas
A solid has a definite shape and a definite volume.	A liquid has no definite shape but has a definite volume.	A gas has neither a definite shape nor a definite volume.
The particles in a solid are very closely packed.	The particles in a liquid are less closely packed and can move past one another.	Gas particles are far apart and move freely.
The intermolecular force of attraction is very strong in solids.	The intermolecular force of attraction is moderate in liquids.	The intermolecular force of attraction is very weak in gases.
Solids are almost incompressible.	Liquids are only slightly compressible.	Gases are highly compressible.