States of Matter

States of matter refer to the distinct forms in which substances can exist, primarily solid, liquid, gas, and plasma. In solids, particles are tightly packed and fixed in place, giving shape and volume. Liquids have particles that are close but can slide past each other, allowing them to flow and take the shape of their container. Gases have particles far apart that move freely, filling their container entirely. Plasma is an ionized state with free electrons and ions, found in stars and neon lights. Changes between these states occur through heating or cooling, affecting particle energy and arrangement.