Compare the compressibility of solids and liquids. Support your answer by describing the arrangement of particles in solids and liquids.

In solids, the particles are strongly held together by intermolecular force of attraction. As a result, solids are rigid and have definite shape and volume.

Whereas particles in liquids are held together by less force of attraction. As a result, they are able to move from their initial position.

Hence, liquids are more compressible than solids whereas solids are not compressible in nature.

Molecules of a solid substance are closer to each other due to the existence of strong forces of attraction between them.

So, these molecules are not able to move randomly but they are able to vibrate at their initial position. Hence, solid substances will have a definite shape and volume.

Solids are not compressible in nature.

And, molecules of a liquid tend to move easily from one place to another as compared to solids because they are held by slightly weak forces.

Therefore, liquid molecules are able to slide past each other and hence, liquids do not have a fixed shape but they do have fixed volume.

Liquids take the shape of a container in which they are kept.

Therefore, liquids are more compressible as compared to solids.