What is matter ?

Matter can be define as anything that has mass and occupies space. It makes up all the physical substances in the universe.

1. Pure Substances: These are made of only one type of material.

   For example, water (H₂O) is a compound made of two types of atoms, and oxygen (O₂) is an element made of just oxygen atoms.





2. Mixtures: These are made of two or more materials mixed together.

   For example, saltwater is a homogeneous mixture where salt is evenly mixed with water, while a salad is a heterogeneous mixture where you can see and separate the different ingredients.

1. Solid: A solid has a definite shape and size. The particles are closely packed together and vibrate in place, which keeps the shape fixed.


2. Liquid: A liquid has a definite volume but no fixed shape. The particles are close together but can move around, allowing the liquid to take the shape of its container.


3. Gas: A gas has neither a fixed shape nor a fixed volume. The particles are far apart and move freely, causing the gas to expand and fill any space it occupies.

1. Solids have a fixed shape, liquids change shape to fit their container, and gases have no fixed shape.


2. Solids and liquids have a set volume, while gases can expand or shrink to fit the space.


3. Solids may feel smooth or rough, while liquids and gases don't have a clear texture.


4. The color of matter helps to identify it, like how water is clear and copper is brown.


5. You can identify matter by whether it's a solid, liquid, or gas.