An understanding of the states of matter is one that we take for granted every day--when we cook, when we breathe, when we use technology. This title explores the basics of states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas. It delves into the history of some of the great minds that have contributed to the modern understanding of matter and how it is being used today in our daily lives. A biographical chapter focusing on French scientist Antoine Lavoisier is included to help round out the text and capture the human side of science.