Gases are described as having what characteristics?

Gases are characterized by having neither a definite shape nor a definite volume. This means that they will expand to fill the container they are in, taking on the shape of that container. The particles in a gas are far apart compared to liquids and solids, allowing for significant freedom of movement. This property allows gases to compress and expand, resulting in the ability to occupy different volumes as the pressure or temperature changes.

In contrast, solids have a definite shape and volume because their particles are closely packed and do not move freely. Liquids have a definite volume but take on the shape of their container, reflecting a more moderate level of particle interaction. Understanding these characteristics is fundamental in the study of gas laws, as they influence how gases behave under various conditions of temperature and pressure.