You’ve likely heard about the three states of matter – gases, solids and liquids. But did you know there are actually six forms of matter? In laboratories, scientists can create plasmas, Bose-Einstein condensates and fermionic condensates, according to NASA. But, for our discussion, we’ll focus on the first three because those are the states of matter you’re likely to interact with.

Fun Facts about States of Matter for Kids

Liquids, like water, oil and soda, shift to fit inside the container they’re in. If you look at them under a microscope, you’ll see that they have particles that are close together, but have no rhyme or reason. The molecules move around.

Gases, including air, steam and helium, are free-flowing. You can easily put your hand through them. Gases shift to fit their container and can even fill it. Their molecules are spaced far apart and wiggle and jiggle.

Solids, like your desk, your backpack and your pants, are firm and stable. Their molecules are grouped together in organized patterns. The molecules might vibrate slightly, but they don’t move around.

States of Matter Vocabulary

Laboratory : a place where a scientist experiments and learns Interact : participate, work with Container : jar, bottle, box or similar product Molecule : composed of one or more atom, the smallest particle of a substance Vibrate : buzz or move

Learn More All About States of Matter

Watch this interesting video about the states of matter:

A video explaining the 3 states of matter.

States of Matter Q&A

Question: Can states of matter change from one to another?

Answer: States of matter can change. For example, water – a liquid – can turn to ice, which is a solid. Heat it up and the ice becomes steam, which is a gas.

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