How did democritus explain the different properties of substances?

Democritus explained the different properties of substances through his theory of atoms, proposing that all matter is composed of indivisible particles called atoms, which vary in shape, size, and arrangement. He suggested that the differences in physical properties of substances arise from the differing configurations and combinations of these atoms. For instance, smooth, round atoms would produce softer materials, while jagged, hook-like atoms would create harder substances. This early concept laid the groundwork for later atomic theory in chemistry.