I kinda already know the answer I think but I want clarification.
In: Physics
The state of matter depends upon how each particle vibrates relative to other particles. One particle isn’t any of these phases. To be one of those, it has to be a collection of particles.
A singular uncharged atom contains protons, neutrons and electrons.
Hydrogen ion (H^+ ) is a proton. Helium ion (He^2+ ) is one proton and a neutron.
You cannot decide whether a single atom is a solid, liquid or gas. You need a bunch of them to interact with each other to be able to categorise them.
PS: Highly ELI5’d
Neither. State of matter is a property of a collection of particles, not a single atoms or molecule.
Not a physicist, but, To have truly a “single” atom, it would likely be called being in a gas state, since being in a liquid or solid state requires there to be interactions or bonds with surrounding atoms.
Any single elementary particle, ie proton/neutron/electron would be considered to be not liquid gas or solid, but instead be “plasma”. A state that is so energetic the only time it happens naturally here on earth is with lightning strikes that energy the air so much it momentarily can separate electrons from atoms.
It’s about energy. Im no expert, but i dont think it works like one atom being a certain state. Its how the atoms interact with each other at certain temperatures (vibrating).
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