Is a singular atom, proton, neutron, or electron a solid, liquid, gas, or nothing in those categories?

Question

I kinda already know the answer I think but I want clarification.

In: Physics

Answer 1

Not a physicist, but, To have truly a “single” atom, it would likely be called being in a gas state, since being in a liquid or solid state requires there to be interactions or bonds with surrounding atoms.

Any single elementary particle, ie proton/neutron/electron would be considered to be not liquid gas or solid, but instead be “plasma”. A state that is so energetic the only time it happens naturally here on earth is with lightning strikes that energy the air so much it momentarily can separate electrons from atoms.