Question

why do the three states of matter differ

Answer 1

Solids: They have a fixed shape and volume.They are NOT free flowing.
Liquids:They have a fixed volume but DO NOT have a fixed shape. They take the shape of the container.They are free flowing.
Gases: They DO NOT have a fixed shape or volume. They are free flowing.

Answer 2

Three states of matter not only differentiate in the closeness of their atoms, but also in the amount of kinetic energy they possess ie kinetic energy of: solid