Which property of solids allows them to be compressed the least compared to liquids and gases? 

The Correct answer is Strong intermolecular forces and close packing of particles.

Key Points

• Solids are characterized by their strong intermolecular forces, which hold their particles tightly together in fixed positions.
• This close packing of particles in solids leaves little to no empty space between them, making them highly resistant to compression.
• Unlike liquids and gases, the particles in solids can only vibrate about their fixed positions and do not move freely.
• The lack of significant intermolecular spaces in solids means they cannot be compressed easily, as there is no room for the particles to move closer.
• Examples of solids with strong intermolecular forces include metals, crystals, and diamonds, which are known for their rigidity and incompressibility.
• The strong intermolecular forces also contribute to solids’ other properties, such as their fixed shape and volume.

 Additional Information

• High intermolecular spaces
  • High intermolecular spaces are a characteristic of gases, not solids.
  • In gases, particles are far apart, allowing them to be easily compressed.
  • This property is the opposite of the close packing seen in solids.
• The ability to diffuse into other solids
  • While some solids can diffuse into each other over long periods (e.g., metals forming alloys), this is not related to their resistance to compression.
  • Diffusion in solids is much slower compared to liquids and gases due to the strong intermolecular forces.
• High kinetic energy of particles
  • High kinetic energy is a property of particles in gases and, to some extent, liquids.
  • In solids, particle motion is limited to vibrations, resulting in low kinetic energy.
  • This low energy contributes to the rigidity and incompressibility of solids.