Question

The solids cannot be compressed because:
(A) the inter particle attraction forces are very weak
(B) the movement of the constituent particles are not restricted
(C) the constituent particles are closely packed
(D) none of the above

Answer 1

Solids, liquids and gases can be defined based on the inter particle distance. This inter particle distance depends on the inter particle attraction forces. More of these forces means that the particles are more close to each other.

Complete step by step solution:
(A) In solids, the inter particle attraction forces are very strong. The decreasing order of the inter particle attraction forces is: solid > liquid > gas
Hence, option (A) is wrong.
(B) Due to the strong inter particle attraction forces, the particles are bound with each other. They cannot move freely or we can say that the movement of the constituent particles are restricted. The freedom of movement of particles is in the increasing order of: solid < liquid < gas
Hence, option (B) is wrong.
(C) The inter particle attraction forces are strongest in solid. Thus, the particles are closest to each other. Due to this close proximity of particles with each other, there is no free space for movement. Therefore, it takes a huge amount of energy to bring these particles closer than before. In other words, generally, the solids cannot be compressed.
Hence, the correct option is (C).

Note:
The particles of solid can vibrate but remain in their previous position. The particles do not leave their positions or they do not move with respect to other particles.