Final answer:
The correct option is c. Solid objects change shape when force is applied; this is known as deformation. Hooke's law states that deformation is proportional to the force for small deformations. Liquids deform easily and do not return to their original shape, unlike solids.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a force is applied to solid objects, they change shape, which is known as deformation. This deformation can include squashing, squeezing, ripping, twisting, shearing, or pulling the objects apart. According to Hooke's law, the size of the deformation is proportional to the force applied for small deformations. The formula representing Hooke's law is F = KAL, where F is the force applied, K is the force constant, and ΔL is the change in length.
Liquids, unlike solids, deform easily under stress and do not return to their original shape because the molecules in a liquid can slide past each other. Liquids resist compression and maintain a constant volume unless an extreme force is applied. When considering temperature effects, objects generally expand in all directions, indicating an increase in area and volume, as depicted in the provided figure.