**Matter: An Overview**

Matter is a term used to describe anything that occupies space and has mass. It is all around us and can exist in various forms, including solid, liquid, and gas. Matter is composed of tiny particles called atoms, which are the building blocks of everything we see and touch. Here are five examples of matter, along with detailed explanations.

**1. Water: A Common Liquid Matter**
Water is a familiar example of matter in its liquid state. It exists in rivers, lakes, oceans, and even in our bodies. At room temperature, water molecules have enough energy to move around and slide past one another, allowing water to flow. It takes the shape of its container, filling up the space it occupies. Water is essential for life, and its liquid state enables various biological processes to occur.

**2. Iron: A Solid Matter**
Iron is an example of matter in its solid state. It is a common element found in the Earth's crust and has numerous uses due to its strength and durability. In its solid form, iron particles are tightly packed together and have a fixed shape. They vibrate in place but do not move freely like the particles in a liquid. This fixed arrangement gives iron its characteristic strength and ability to hold its shape.

**3. Oxygen: A Gas Matter**
Oxygen is an example of matter in its gaseous state. It is a gas that makes up about 21% of the Earth's atmosphere. Oxygen molecules are not tightly packed like in solids or liquids. Instead, they move freely and rapidly, filling any available space. Gases are highly compressible and can expand to fill any container. Oxygen gas is vital for supporting life and is essential for combustion.

**4. Air: A Mixture of Gases**
Air is a mixture of gases and is an excellent example of matter. It is composed of various gases, primarily nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and smaller amounts of other gases. These gases exist together but can be separated by various methods, such as filtration or distillation. Air is essential for all living organisms and plays a crucial role in maintaining the Earth's climate and weather patterns.

**5. Wood: A Composite Matter**
Wood is an example of matter that can be classified as a composite. It is composed of cellulose fibers held together by a natural adhesive called lignin. Wood is a solid material that comes from trees and has been used for various purposes throughout human history, such as for construction, fuel, and furniture. Its unique composition gives wood its strength, flexibility, and ability to burn.

In conclusion, matter is all around us and exists in various forms, including solids, liquids, and gases. Water, iron, oxygen, air, and wood are just a few examples of the vast array of matter that surrounds us. Understanding the different states and types of matter is essential for comprehending the world we live in and the materials we encounter daily.