Option C accurately describes the varying states of matter: solids are tightly packed, while gases are loosely packed, reflecting their distinct particle arrangements and behaviors.
The correct answer is option C. " Solids are tightly packed whereas gases are loosely packed".
In solids, particles are closely packed together in a regular arrangement, maintaining a fixed shape and volume. The strong intermolecular forces hold the particles in a relatively fixed position, giving solids a distinct structure.
In contrast, gases have particles that are much more loosely packed. Gas particles move freely and rapidly, with weak intermolecular forces allowing them to expand to fill the shape and volume of their container. The distance between gas particles is relatively large compared to solids, leading to a more disordered arrangement.
Options A and D present inaccuracies in their descriptions. Liquids are not loosely packed; rather, they have particles that are less ordered compared to solids but more tightly packed than in gases. Option B is also inaccurate because liquids are not loosely packed; instead, they exhibit an intermediate level of particle arrangement between solids and gases.
In summary, option C accurately captures the characteristic arrangement of particles in solids and gases, providing a correct description of the varying states of matter.