Or
In a solid, the atoms or molecules are closely packed and have a fixed position in space. The atoms or molecules are arranged in a regular crystal lattice, and are held together by strong intermolecular forces. Solids have a definite shape and volume, and are resistant to changes in shape or volume.
Goodstein, D. L. (2002). States of Matter. Dover Publications.
https://www.pdfdrive.com/search.html?search=states+of+matter+goodstein+pdf states of matter goodstein pdf
The thermodynamics of phase transitions can be described using the principles of thermodynamics. The Gibbs free energy is a useful quantity for understanding phase transitions, as it determines the stability of a phase. When the Gibbs free energy of a phase is lower than that of another phase, the first phase is stable.
https://www.amazon.com/States-Matter-Donald-Goodstein/dp-0486490317
Here is the pdf version of the text
Callen, H. B. (1985). Thermodynamics and an Introduction to Thermostatics. John Wiley & Sons.
Atkins, P. W., & De Paula, J. (2006). Physical Chemistry. Oxford University Press.
In conclusion, the states of matter are a fundamental concept in physics, and are essential to understanding a wide range of phenomena in the natural world. The characteristics of each state, and the phase transitions that occur between them, are governed by the underlying physics of the system. Or In a solid, the atoms or molecules
In a gas, the atoms or molecules are widely spaced and are free to move in any direction. Gases have neither a definite shape nor a definite volume, and will expand to fill their container. The intermolecular forces in a gas are very weak, and are often negligible.
(I will provide a link to a free pdf of the book " States of Matter" by Goodstein
In a liquid, the atoms or molecules are close together, but are free to move past one another. Liquids have a definite volume, but take the shape of their container. The intermolecular forces in a liquid are weaker than those in a solid, and are responsible for the liquid's viscosity and surface tension. Goodstein, D