Solid is something strong, solid or firm . The term comes from the Latin solĭdus . For example: “I need solid wood to build a table where I can put the new television on,” “Yesterday I went to see a house, but I didn't like it because it didn't seem very solid,” “I have to buy a solid cardboard sheet to that my son takes to school.”
Solid bodies, on the other hand, are those that maintain a constant shape and volume thanks to the great cohesion of their molecules . The solid phase is one of the four states of aggregation of matter , along with the liquid, the gaseous and the plasmatic.
Characteristics of solids
Among the properties of solids, elasticity (a solid can recover its original shape when deformed), hardness (it cannot be scratched by another whiter body) and fragility (solids can break or fracture into many pieces) stand out. since they are brittle).
To all these characteristics or properties of solids we should also add the resistance they present to modifying their position in a state of rest; ductility ; tenacity ; rigidity and malleability .
It should be noted that solids usually have a defined shape and volume (unlike liquids or gases) and have high density (their molecules are very close). It is interesting to know, on the other hand, that there are several disciplines that are responsible for studying and analyzing solids in depth: materials science , solid state physics and solid state chemistry are some of them.
Other information of interest
At low temperature and constant pressure, solid bodies generally form a crystalline structure . This allows them to withstand forces without appearing deformed.
In the same way we cannot forget that there are concepts such as the notion of solid solution . This is a concept that is used in the field of science, specifically in the field of physics and chemistry, to refer to that homogeneous and firm mixture that is produced with two or more different substances.
A geometric solid , meanwhile, is a figure that has three dimensions (height, depth and length). Also known as geometric bodies , these solids have volume. A cube , sphere , cylinder , prism , tetrahedron , and pyramid are examples of geometric solids.
Examples of solids
An example of a solid state of matter is ice (frozen water). This same substance, formed by two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom, can be found in a liquid state (in the oceans) or in a gaseous state (vapor).
Rocks and minerals are also examples of solids. Thus, this set can include diamond , quartz , silicon , amethyst , marble and granite .
Other examples of solids are ceramics and glass . As can be seen, many materials used daily and present in all homes are solid.
Let's think about objects that we can find in any home. A wooden table, windows, textile clothing, books printed on paper... They are all solid elements.
Of course, in everyday life the different states of matter are combined. Water comes out in a liquid state from a steel tap or faucet (a solid product). The water, in turn, can be used to fill a (solid) aluminum pot that is placed on the fire: as it boils, the contents turn into steam.
Other uses of the term
In another sense, solid is something that is well established or that is supported by true reasons : “The defense argument was very solid and was enough to win the trial,” “I want a solid candidate for my daughter, who has a good future.”
In this way, colloquially this term can be used to refer to the fact that a relationship between two people, whether a friendship or a couple, is perfectly consolidated and that means that there is nothing at that moment that could make it disappear.
Something solid, in this sense, is not easy to break . Its strength is not given by physical characteristics but by symbolic values. A solid bond is based on deep feelings and the strong will of those who maintain the relationship. This means that it takes a large event or occurrence to break it.
A couple who married forty years ago and have three children and five grandchildren can be described as solid. Throughout those four decades, it went through bad times and crises, but the members knew how to prioritize love and, thanks to their commitment and mutual respect, they overcame obstacles to continue together.
It must also be emphasized that solid is a word that is also used in the historical field. Specifically, it is used to name a coin that the Romans used and that was equivalent to 25 gold dinars.