A solid is a substance that has a definite shape and volume. The volume of a solid object is measured in cubic units. Cubic means it has three dimensions (height, length and depth). The volume of a solid object is measured with a formula of length times width times depth. (L x W x D = V). In solids, the atoms and molecules are close together, creating a strong attraction between them. These particles vibrate in place but do not flow or move around, so the solid object maintains its shape and volume.
A liquid is a substance that has a definite volume, but no definite shape. It takes on the shape of its container or simply spreads out upon a surface (think of a spilled glass of milk). The volume of a liquid is usually measured in liters or milliliters. In a liquid state, substances can change their shape because their atoms or molecules have more energy than they do in a solid state. This means that these particles are moving fast enough to overcome some of the force of attraction between them, thus allowing the liquid to flow.
Which of these is a difference between a solid and a liquid?
A
Solids are made of atoms, but liquids are not.
B
A solid has volume but not shape, while a liquid has shape but not volume.
C
The particles in a solid vibrate in place, while a liquid’s particles can flow.
D
Solids are measured in three dimensions, but liquids are only measured in two.