Incompressibility refers to the property of substances that do not change their volume under pressure. Generally, solids and liquids are considered incompressible, while gases are compressible.
Incompressible Substances:
- Water: Water is often used as a standard for incompressibility. While it can be compressed under extreme pressures, for most practical purposes, it is treated as incompressible.
- Metals: Most metals, when subjected to normal pressure, do not change their volume significantly. For example, steel and iron maintain their volume under typical conditions.
- Glass: Glass is another example of an incompressible substance. Its structure remains stable under pressure unless it reaches its breaking point.
Compressible Substances:
- Air: Air is a classic example of a compressible substance. When pressure is applied, the volume of air decreases significantly.
- Carbon Dioxide: Like air, carbon dioxide can be compressed, especially when stored in pressurized containers, allowing it to occupy a smaller volume.
- Natural Gas: Natural gas is also compressible, which allows it to be stored and transported efficiently over long distances.
In summary, while liquids like water and solids like metals are generally incompressible, gases, including air and carbon dioxide, can be compressed easily.