CHEMISTRY CLASS 12, Chapter 1 Solid States Class 12 Chemistry, Chapter 1 Solid States | Page 3

Fig . Particles of liquid ( water ) are loosely packed than solid and have space between them whereas particles of gas are loosely packed and have excess space between the particles
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Characteristics of solid state
They have definite shape due to strong Intermolecular forces of attraction .
o They have distinct boundaries . o They have a fixed volume . o They cannot flow .
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They have negligible compressibility due to negligible distance between the neighbouring molecules .
They possess a tendency to uphold their shape when exposed to external force .
They break under force but it is difficult to change their shape so they are rigid .
o They have high density and do not diffuse at all .
Fig . Particles of solid ( Wooden plank ) are compact together and have less space between them
Amorphous Solids
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The term amorphous solid is derived form a Greek word amorphous meaning no form .
The constituent particles are arranged in a short range order with a regular and periodically repeating pattern over short distances .
These solids get softened at a certain temperature and hence can be moulded and drawn into various desired shapes . Solids may also acquire crystalline form at some temperature when heated .