Question

On the basis of intermolecular forces and thermal energy, explain why a solid has rigidity but liquids do not have rigidity?

Answer 1

Solids have rigidity but liquids do not have rigidity because, in solids, the intermolecular forces of attraction are very strong and predominate over thermal (heat) energy, but in liquids, the intermolecular forces of attraction are not strong enough.

Also, in solids, the molecules and ions are compactly arranged and vibrate when heated due to intramolecular hydrogen bonding with water molecules, but in liquids, the molecules are at far distances from each other and are not closely packed. So, the rigidity is not high in liquids.