Question

What will happen to the kinetic energy of a particle if it is heated?

Answer 1

Understanding the concept:

• According to the kinetic molecular theory" The particles are in a state of continuous motion and thus have kinetic energy associated with them".
• Kinetic energy is an energy associated with the motion of particles.
• It is maximum in gases and minimum in solids.

Explanation of kinetic energy due to heating

• When heat is applied, energy is absorbed and the particles start vibrating more vigorously.
• It will increase the rate of movement of particles. Thus the kinetic energy of particles increases.
• Due to an increase in kinetic energy the force of attraction between the particles decreases and collides with each other and moves away from each other.
• The reverse happens, if the matter is cooled i,e., heat energy is taken out of it decreasing its kinetic energy.