State of Matter for Most Elements at Room Temperature — NYT Mini Crossword Clue (October 15, 2025)
The third Down entry leans on foundational chemistry. Below, find the confirmed answer, periodic table insights, and solver techniques for spotting science-driven clues. Apostrophes appear as ' and quotation marks as " for HTML precision.
3 Down
State of matter for most elements at room temperature
The answer SOLID reflects the fact that the majority of elements in the periodic table exist as solids at room temperature. Word Tips reinforces the entry with a direct statement of that scientific fact, removing ambiguity.
Why SOLID Is the Scientific Fit
Periodic Table Basics
- At room temperature, almost every metal plus many metalloids remain solid, making SOLID the best general descriptor.
- Word Tips' prompt references the same observation, confirming you are on the right track.
- Alternative states such as LIQUID or GAS would contradict empirical data—only a handful of elements occupy those phases.
Cross-Letter Reliability
- 1-Across PCS anchors each letter from the Across side.
- 4-Across WAHOO anchors each letter from the Across side.
- 6-Across SPILL anchors each letter from the Across side.
- 7-Across JULIA anchors each letter from the Across side.
- 8-Across ADD anchors each letter from the Across side.
- 1-Down PAPUA reinforces the remaining consonants and vowels.
- 2-Down CHILD reinforces the remaining consonants and vowels.
- 4-Down WSJ reinforces the remaining consonants and vowels.
- 5-Down OLA reinforces the remaining consonants and vowels.
Strategy & Science Recall
Scan for Academic Keywords
When a clue mentions states of matter or elements, think of broad science terms first. SOLID is the most common answer in Minis for this setup.
Use Real-World Facts
Only mercury, bromine, and a few gases break the solid rule at 25°C. Recalling that fact prevents misdirected guesses.
Crossing Assurance
Because SOLID anchors the center column, verify every letter with its across partner before locking the entry. Their high accuracy ensures no revisions later.
Knowledge Retention
Minis regularly test baseline science facts. Logging SOLID alongside BASIC, ATOM, and ION as go-to answers saves precious seconds.
Vocabulary & STEM Connections
Related Science Terms
- LIQUID
- GAS
- PLASMA
- DENSITY
Crossword Friendly Concepts
- ATOM
- ION
- MOLE
- BOHR
Letter Pattern Insight
SOLID's consonant-vowel structure (S-O-L-I-D) interlocks smoothly with the across entries, making it a core anchor. There are no common anagrams, which keeps the entry uniquely identifiable.