Is helium a solid liquid or gas

Helium, the second lightest element in the universe, holds a special place in our understanding of matter and its states.  To answer the question of whether helium is a solid, liquid, or gas, we need to delve into its physical properties and how they are influenced by temperature and pressure.

     At standard conditions of temperature and pressure (STP), helium exists as a gas.  Its low boiling point of -268.93°C (-452.07°F) and its inability to solidify or liquefy under normal conditions make it a gaseous element.  This gaseous state is due to the weak intermolecular forces between helium atoms, which allow them to move freely and occupy a large volume.

    However, it's worth noting that the state of matter is not absolute but relative to the conditions it's exposed to.  Under extremely low temperatures and high pressures, helium can undergo a phase transition and become a liquid or even a solid.  But these conditions are far from the typical environmental or industrial settings where helium is encountered.

   In scientific experiments, helium can be cooled to extremely low temperatures using cryogenic techniques, causing it to liquefy.  In fact, liquid helium is used in certain scientific applications, such as cooling superconducting magnets in MRI machines.  Solid helium, on the other hand, is a rarer state and requires even more extreme conditions to achieve.

    In summary, helium is primarily a gas at STP, but its state can change depending on the temperature and pressure it's exposed to.  While it can become a liquid or solid under specific conditions, these are not the typical states encountered in daily life or industrial use.  Understanding the states of matter of helium and how they are influenced by external conditions is crucial for its effective use and management.