Interesting facts about solids

  • Not all solids are hard. A table is a hard solid but powder is a soft solid.
  • The particles that make up a solid vibrate in a fixed position. They move so quickly that we can’t see it!
  • Solids are often used to build large structures because they are strong and long-lasting.
  • Solids can change into liquids and gases. 

 

Characteristics of solids

Solids are one of the three common states of matter. They are known for having tightly packed molecules which are held together by strong bonds. They are so close together they cannot move which is why solids do not change shape easily.

 

Colours and textures of solids

Solids can come in any size, colour and shape. Some solids are very hard like metal and others are soft like powder. Some are rough like wood and others are bendy like plastic. There are some solids that are also transparent like glass.

We find solids everywhere. The chair you are sitting on is a solid and the computer you are looking at is also a solid. Objects made of plastic, wood, metal, and rock are all examples of solids we see every day. Have a look at your hands. They’re solids too!


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Three phases of matter

Matter is made up of atoms and molecules. Millions and millions of these tiny objects combine to form larger objects like planets, animals and rocks.  

Matter usually exists in one of three states or phases: solid, liquid and gas. We see all three states every day. 

Solids - The particles in a solid are held together really closely, this stops them from moving. This is what makes solids so hard and stops them from flowing.

Liquids - The particles in a liquid are also held together closely, but not as much as a solid. They have more space between them and this is why they can flow.

Gases - The particles in a gas are very far apart so they are always dancing around and filling as much space as they can.


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