# Explain why a solid has a fixed shape and cannot be compressed, whilst a gas has no fixed shape and can be compressed easily.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620) — 1.1 Solids, liquids and gases · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. In a solid, particles are held in fixed positions (in a regular arrangement)
2. Strong forces of attraction between particles in a solid hold them in place, giving it a fixed shape
3. In a solid, there are no/negligible spaces between particles, so it cannot be compressed
4. In a gas, particles are far apart with large spaces between them, so the gas has no fixed shape and can be compressed (particles can be pushed closer together)

## Key terms

- [fixed shape](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/fixed-shape)
- [compressed](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/compressed)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-a-solid-has-a-1b5bc7a4) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.