The table compares the characteristics of a substance in three different states of matter. Comparison of Characteristics Characteristic State X State Y State Z Average Speed of the Particles Low Greatest Least Particle Attraction/Forces Weak Negligible Strong Which of these best describes the state of the substance represented by State Z? It is a solid because strong attractive forces prevent particles from moving. It is a liquid because strong attractive forces prevent particles from moving. It is a liquid because weak attractive forces allow for some motion. It is a gas because weak attractive forces allow for some motion.