Liquids

The liquid state of matter is characterized by particles that are close together but not as tightly packed as in solids. These particles can move past one another, allowing liquids to flow and take the shape of their container while maintaining a constant volume. The forces of attraction between the particles are strong enough to keep them together, but not so strong as to prevent movement. This gives liquids the ability to flow and adapt to different shapes while resisting compression. Liquids have a definite volume but no fixed shape, with common examples including water, oil, and mercury.