Atoms can be both solid and liquid

Scientists examining potassium have discovered a new state of physical matter where atoms can exist as both solid and liquid at the same time.

The research is said to clear up whether there was a distinct state of matter or the atom structures represented a transition between two stages – whether solid, liquid or gas.

Tests at Edinburgh University were carried out, such as applying high pressures and temperatures, with powerful computer simulations used to study what was known as the chain-melted state.