Is there some sort of state of matter between a liquid and a gas?

[partialfracti]

We've all heard of the three states of matter: solids, liquids, and gases. Recently someone told me that there is some sort of state of matter between a liquid and a gas. Does anyone know what he's talking about?

 

[Borek]

Supercritical fluid perhaps.

 

[Studiot]

It really depends upon your definition of state.
And also what you mean by between a liquid and a gas. Both are fluids, a liquid is constrained by its surface in a way that a gas is not.

Some might say that water droplets dispersed in the air (clouds) correspond to your requirements.

Others might point to the adsorbed state of gas molecules on charcoal.

Of course it is easier to find examples where the rheology allows intermediacy between solid and liquid eg glass - the vitreous state.

 

[rcgldr]

Supercritical fluid perhaps.

Wiki article:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Critical_point_(physics)

 

[PJC01]

Yes, there is a state of matter known as a "fluid" that exists between a liquid and a gas. This state of matter is characterized by particles that are free to move and flow like a liquid, but also have enough energy to spread out and fill the container like a gas. This state of matter is often referred to as a "superfluid" or "supercritical fluid" and is typically achieved at high temperatures and pressures. Examples of substances that can exhibit this state of matter include liquid helium and carbon dioxide.