States of Matter
Class 6–8 Science: solids, liquids and gases (particles)
Heat and cool water and watch its tiny particles. See ice melt, water boil and steam turn back into water.
Words to know
- Solid
- Keeps its shape; particles are packed tight and only vibrate.
- Liquid
- Flows and takes the shape of its container.
- Gas
- Spreads out to fill any space; particles move fast and far apart.
- Melting point
- The temperature at which a solid turns into a liquid (0 °C for ice).
Quick check
Answer 3 questions to check what you learned.
Try at home
Put an ice cube on a plate and time how long it takes to melt. Try one in the sun and one in the shade. Which melts first, and why?