A solid has definite volume and shape, a liquid has a definite volume but no definite shape, and a gas has neither a definite volume nor shape. The change from solid to liquid usually does not significantly change the volume of a substance.

Introduction
Matter is anything that has mass and occupies space. Matter exists in three states- solid, liquid, and gas. The state of matter depends on the arrangement of particles in it.

Solid
In the solid state, particles are closely packed together and have a definite shape and volume. The particles in a solid vibrate in place but do not move around. Examples of solids are wood, metal, and stone.

Liquid
In the liquid state, particles are not as closely packed as in solids, but they are still close enough to have a definite volume. However, liquids do not have a definite shape and take the shape of the container they are in. The particles in a liquid are free to move, but they stick together. Examples of liquids are water, milk, and oil.

Gas
In the gas state, particles are not packed closely together and have no definite shape or volume. Gases fill the container they are in and take its shape. The particles in a gas move around freely and quickly. Examples of gases are oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide.

Differences between the three states of matter
The three states of matter differ in their properties as shown in the table below:

|Property|Solid|Liquid|Gas|
|---|---|---|---|
|Shape|Definite|No definite shape|No definite shape|
|Volume|Definite|Definite|No definite volume|
|Arrangement of particles|Closely packed|Close but not as much as solids|Not closely packed|
|Movement of particles|Vibrate in place|Free to move but stick together|Move around freely and quickly|

Conclusion
In conclusion, the three states of matter- solid, liquid, and gas have different properties and characteristics based on the arrangement of particles. Each state has its own unique properties and is useful in different ways. Understanding the properties of matter is important in fields such as chemistry, physics, and engineering.