**Matter in Our Surroundings: A Short Note**

Matter is all around us and can be found in various forms. It is anything that occupies space and has mass. Matter can exist in three states - solid, liquid, and gas. Let's explore the characteristics and properties of matter in our surroundings.

**States of Matter:**
1. **Solid:** Solids have a definite shape and volume. The particles in a solid are tightly packed and have a fixed position. They vibrate around their mean position. Examples of solids include wood, metal, and stone.

2. **Liquid:** Liquids have a definite volume but no fixed shape. The particles in a liquid are close together but can move and slide past each other. They have more energy than solid particles. Examples of liquids include water, milk, and oil.

3. **Gas:** Gases have neither a definite shape nor volume. The particles in a gas are far apart and move freely at high speeds. They have the most energy compared to solids and liquids. Examples of gases include air, oxygen, and carbon dioxide.

**Properties of Matter:**
1. **Mass:** Matter has mass, which is the amount of material present in an object. Mass is measured in kilograms (kg) or grams (g).

2. **Volume:** Matter occupies space and has a volume. Volume is the amount of space occupied by an object or substance. It is measured in cubic units such as liters (L) or cubic meters (m³).

3. **Density:** Density is the mass per unit volume of a substance. It determines whether a substance will sink or float in another substance. Density is calculated by dividing mass by volume.

4. **Physical Change:** Matter can undergo physical changes without changing its chemical composition. Examples of physical changes include melting, freezing, boiling, and condensation.

5. **Chemical Change:** Matter can also undergo chemical changes where its composition is altered, resulting in the formation of new substances. Examples of chemical changes include burning, rusting, and digestion.

**Conclusion:**
Understanding the different states and properties of matter is crucial in comprehending the world around us. It helps us explain various phenomena and enables us to make use of matter in our daily lives. By studying matter, we can gain insights into the behavior and interactions of different substances, leading to advancements in science and technology.

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