Describe the states of matter with examples.

State of Matter Definition Characteristics Examples
Solid Matter in a state where particles are closely packed and vibrate but do not move freely. Definite shape and volume. Ice, iron, wood.
Liquid Matter in a state where particles are close together but can move past each other. Definite volume but no definite shape; takes shape of the container. Water, oil, mercury.
Gas Matter in a state where particles are far apart and move freely. No definite shape or volume; expands to fill the container. Oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen.
Plasma Ionized gas with high energy particles. High energy, conducts electricity, and can be affected by magnetic fields. Sun, stars, lightning.