Which phase has definite volume, no definite shape, and molecules that will fit the shape of its container?

Which phase has definite volume, no definite shape, and molecules that will fit the shape of its container?

• A. Gases
• B. Liquids
• C. Solids
• D. Vapors

Answer: (B)

Liquids have a definite volume but take the shape of their container. The molecules are close together and held by intermolecular forces, which keeps the volume fairly constant and incompressible. At the same time, they can slide past one another, so they flow and adapt to the container’s shape rather than keeping a rigid form. In contrast, gases fill the entire space they occupy and have no definite shape or volume, solids have both definite shape and volume, and vapors are the gaseous form of substances.

Liquids have a definite volume but take the shape of their container. The molecules are close together and held by intermolecular forces, which keeps the volume fairly constant and incompressible. At the same time, they can slide past one another, so they flow and adapt to the container’s shape rather than keeping a rigid form. In contrast, gases fill the entire space they occupy and have no definite shape or volume, solids have both definite shape and volume, and vapors are the gaseous form of substances.