Solid matter
- has a definite shape,
- has a definite volume,
- has particles that are very tightly packed, and
- has particles that vibrate in place.
Liquid matter
- takes on the shape of its container,
- has a definite volume,
- has particles that are close together, and
- has particles that vibrate and move around easily.
Gaseous matter
- takes on the shape of its container,
- has a volume that is defined by its container,
- has particles that are spread out, and
- has particles that move rapidly and freely.
Plasma matter
- is made up of negatively charged electrons and positively charged nuclei that have been separated by intense heat,
- has charged particles that move extremely fast, and
- is found in stars and lightning.
