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

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of states of matter, specifically exploring whether there exists a state between liquids and gases. Participants consider various interpretations and examples related to this idea.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest the term "supercritical fluid" as a potential state between liquid and gas.
  • One participant emphasizes that the definition of "state" is crucial and questions what is meant by "between a liquid and a gas," noting that both are already classified as fluids.
  • Examples such as water droplets in clouds and gas molecules adsorbed on charcoal are proposed as possible intermediate states.
  • Another participant mentions the vitreous state of glass as an example of an intermediate state between solid and liquid.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on a singular definition or example of a state between liquid and gas, indicating multiple competing views and interpretations remain in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the dependence on definitions and interpretations of states of matter, as well as the ambiguity in the term "between." There are unresolved aspects regarding the criteria for classifying states of matter.

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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?
 
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Supercritical fluid perhaps.
 
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.
 

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