Final answer:
Solids have a definite shape due to the tightly packed particles and strong forces. Liquids fill containers because their particles can move and slide past each other. Gases cannot be stored in open containers as their widely spaced particles would disperse.
Step-by-step explanation:
A: Solids have a definite shape because the particles in a solid are tightly packed and held together by strong forces. These forces prevent the particles from moving freely, resulting in a rigid structure. As a result, solids maintain their shape.
B: Liquids fill the bottom of a container because the particles in a liquid are close together but can still move and slide past each other. This allows liquids to take the shape of their container and flow.
C: Gases cannot be stored in open containers because the particles in a gas are widely spaced and move freely. Without a closed container, the gas particles would quickly disperse and fill the available space.
D: You can't squeeze a sealed plastic syringe that is completely full of water because liquids are incompressible. The particles in a liquid are already closely packed, and applying pressure does not significantly change the volume.
E: A balloon expands as you blow it because gases are highly compressible. When you blow air into a balloon, the gas particles inside the balloon are forced closer together, causing the balloon to inflate.
Learn more about States of Matter