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solid
Definition
A solid is a state of matter that has a definite shape and volume. The particles in a solid are packed together tightly, so they cannot move around very much. This is why solids have a definite shape and volume.
Solids can be classified into three types: crystalline solids, amorphous solids, and gels. Crystalline solids have a regular repeating pattern of particles. Amorphous solids do not have a regular repeating pattern of particles. Gels are a combination of a solid and a liquid.
Crystalline solids are formed when atoms or molecules arrange themselves in a regular repeating pattern. This pattern can be seen under a microscope. Examples of crystalline solids include metals, minerals, and some plastics.
Amorphous solids are formed when atoms or molecules do not arrange themselves in a regular repeating pattern. This is because the atoms or molecules are moving too quickly to form a regular pattern. Examples of amorphous solids include glass, rubber, and some plastics.
Gels are a combination of a solid and a liquid. The solid particles are dispersed in the liquid. The solid particles give the gel its shape, and the liquid allows the gel to flow. Examples of gels include gelatin, jelly, and some paints.
How can the word be used?
The brick wall was a solid construction.
Different forms of the word
Adjective:
- having a definite shape and volume.
- not liquid or gaseous.
- firm and not easily broken.
Noun:
- a solid object.
Etymology
The word "solid" comes from the Latin word "solidus", which means "firm" or "compact".
The first recorded use of the word "solid" in English was in the 13th century.
The word "solid" is derived from the Latin word "solidus", which is itself derived from the Proto-Indo-European word *sōl, which also means "firm" or "compact".
Question
What materials can be described as solid?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the properties of a solid and how its particles are arranged, discussing how temperature affects the behaviour of solids.
Answer:
A solid is a state of matter characterised by its definite shape and volume. In solids, particles are closely packed and held together by strong intermolecular forces. These particles vibrate in fixed positions, giving solids their rigidity.
The arrangement of particles in a solid varies based on the type of substance. In crystalline solids, such as salt or diamond, particles form regular, repeating patterns known as crystal lattices. This orderly arrangement contributes to the distinctive properties of crystalline solids, such as cleavage planes and well-defined melting points. Amorphous solids, like glass or plastic, lack a consistent, repeating structure, resulting in less predictable properties.
Temperature significantly impacts the behaviour of solids. As temperature increases, the kinetic energy of particles also increases, causing them to vibrate more vigorously. In crystalline solids, this increased vibration can disrupt the crystal lattice, leading to a phase transition from solid to liquid (melting) at a specific temperature called the melting point. However, in amorphous solids, temperature changes may result in a gradual softening or deformation rather than a distinct melting point.