The concept of states of matter refers to the distinct forms that different phases of matter take on. Traditionally, we recognize three primary states: solid, liquid, and gas. Solids have a definite shape and volume due to tightly packed particles, liquids have a definite volume but take the shape of their container with more spaced-out particles, and gases have neither a definite shape nor volume, expanding to fill their container with widely spaced particles.
This understanding can be expanded to include additional states, such as plasma and Bose-Einstein condensates, which represent more complex conditions of matter under extreme temperatures and pressures. However, within the context of the most commonly recognized states of matter, three stands out as the fundamental categories known to most people.
Thus, the correct answer indicates that there are three states of matter that are widely acknowledged, making it crucial to understand each state’s characteristics and the conditions that lead to changes between them.