The matter by which a thing is made is called material. Each material has its own characteristics, also known as properties of matter. These properties tell you about the composition of the material. There are two classes of general properties: physical and chemical.

Physical Properties

Physical properties refer to the characteristics that you can observe in an object without having to change its composition. They include the object’s state, or the form in which the object exists. The properties of a state make it distinctly different from the other two states.

States of Matter

1. Solid

Matter that is in the solid state has definite size and shape. The molecules that make up a solid are arranged very close together. This arrangement prevents the molecules from moving, thus giving the solid its definite size and shape. Your book and pencil are only two examples of solids.

A solid also has a definite weight. Solids like cotton are light, while solids like big machines are heavy. To get the exact weight of a solid, you have to use a weighing scale or platform balance.

A solid also has a definite volume. Solids like books and pencils occupy space.