In basic physics, anything that has mass and occupies space is defined as which fundamental physical concept?

Introduction / Context:
One of the first definitions students learn in physics and chemistry is the meaning of matter. This foundational concept helps them distinguish between physical objects and abstract quantities such as energy. Understanding this definition is essential for later topics like states of matter, conservation laws, and atomic structure, and therefore it often appears in entry level general science questions.

Given Data / Assumptions:
The question provides a definition: anything that has mass and occupies space.
Options include system, matter, energy, and weight.
We assume standard school level definitions of these terms.
The aim is to match the definition with the correct term used in basic science.

Concept / Approach:
In basic science, matter is defined as anything that has mass and occupies space. Mass refers to the amount of substance in an object, and occupying space means that the object takes up volume. A system is a chosen part of the universe under study and may contain matter and energy. Energy is the ability to do work or cause change and does not occupy space in the same way matter does. Weight is the gravitational force acting on the mass of an object and is related to, but different from, mass. Therefore, the term that matches the given definition is matter.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the textbook definition of matter as anything that has mass and occupies space. Step 2: Compare this definition with the given description in the question. Step 3: Examine each option and note that only matter is defined that way, while system, energy, and weight have different meanings. Step 4: Choose matter as the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Think of examples such as solids, liquids, and gases. All of them have mass and take up volume, so they are forms of matter. In contrast, energy such as heat or light is described differently and is not defined primarily by occupying space. Physics and chemistry textbooks repeat this definition of matter many times in early chapters, which confirms that it is the intended answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
A system is a selected part of the universe that can include matter and energy, but it is not defined by having mass and volume alone.
Energy is the capacity to do work or produce change and does not fit the given definition of having mass and occupying space.
Weight is the gravitational force on an object mass and depends on both mass and the gravitational field, so it is a different concept from matter.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse mass, weight, and matter because they are related in everyday language. They may mistakenly think weight is the definition because it is also linked with objects. Remembering that mass and volume define matter, while weight is a force and energy is the ability to do work, helps keep these ideas separate and reduces confusion.

Final Answer:
Anything that has mass and occupies space is called Matter.