Intermolecular space is the least in

Options

A. water
B. steam
C. ice
D. all of them

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the States of Matter**: The three primary states of matter are solids, liquids, and gases. Each state has different characteristics regarding the arrangement and spacing of molecules.

2. **Understand Molecular Arrangement in Solids**: In solids, the molecules are packed very closely together. This tight packing results in negligible intermolecular space. The forces between the molecules are strong, keeping them in fixed positions.

3. **Understand Molecular Arrangement in Liquids**: In liquids, the molecules are still close together but not as tightly packed as in solids. There is some intermolecular space, allowing the molecules to move around each other, which gives liquids a definite volume but no fixed shape.

4. **Understand Molecular Arrangement in Gases**: In gases, the molecules are far apart from each other, resulting in maximum intermolecular space. The forces between gas molecules are very weak, allowing them to move freely and fill the container they are in.

5. **Compare the Intermolecular Spaces**: Based on the arrangement of molecules in each state:
- Solids have the least intermolecular space.
- Liquids have more intermolecular space than solids.
- Gases have the most intermolecular space.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the state of matter with the least intermolecular space is solids. Among the options given (water, steam, ice), ice is the solid form of water, confirming that the correct answer is ice.

**Final Answer**: The intermolecular space is least in solids, specifically in ice.

---