If atoms consist mostly of empty space, how do they form solids and liquids?

What I am trying to say is, the atoms don't have an outer surface which forms its boundary right?
They are represented as small spheres or circles in books, which are shown to touch each other for a solid and slightly separated in case of liquids.
In reality it is not so.
An atom is just the nucleus surrounded by electrons moving randomly.
So, how then will atoms form matter?

Question

If atoms consist mostly of empty space, how do they form solids and liquids?

What I am trying to say is, the atoms don't have an outer surface which forms its boundary right?
They are represented as small spheres or circles in books, which are shown to touch each other for a solid and slightly separated in case of liquids.
In reality it is not so.
An atom is just the nucleus surrounded by electrons moving randomly.
So, how then will atoms form matter?

anonymous · Answer

this is where forces become important. Electro-magnetic forces, gravitational, strong and weak nuclear forces which all help in keeping atoms together

mani_jha · Answer

Your question is exactly what scientists asked years ago, after having discovered the atomic structure. And the answer to your question is Chemical Bonding.