How are atoms and molecules arranged differently in solids, liquids, and gases?

The arrangement and motion of atoms and molecules differ significantly across the three primary states of matter:

• Solids: Atoms and molecules are held in close proximity in a durable, organized structure. In crystalline solids, they occupy a definite lattice pattern, while in amorphous solids, they lack such a regular arrangement. Particles in a solid are not mobile; instead, they oscillate rapidly about fixed points.12
• Liquids: Like solids, liquids are a form of condensed matter where particles are in close proximity. However, they possess no enduring arrangement. Atoms and molecules in a liquid are mobile and wander continually throughout the material, allowing the substance to flow and take the shape of its container.13
• Gases: Particles in a gas are far apart and move chaotically in all directions. There is no organized structure, and molecules are distributed randomly in space. They travel in arbitrary directions, colliding with one another and the walls of their container, with their motion dominated by kinetic energy rather than attractive forces.34