Solids and Liquids


Solids and Liquids

Ok, this one'll be quick.  The molecules of a solid are tightly packed, therefore allowing very little molecular movement.  In addition, they are generally in some sort of pattern or crystalline structure.  Take for example salt.  Regular table salt is NaCl.  Within table salt is a structure of alternating Na+ and Cl- ions.

Liquids have molecules which flow and have somewhat more molecular movement than solids.  This is what allows them to flow and conform to the shape of the container that they are poured into.  Liquids have little if any, pattern or structure to them.  In addition, only pure flowing substance are called liquids.  Sugar water, for example, is a solution, not a liquid.