What happens to molecules when their kinetic energy decreases?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking what occurs at the molecular level when the kinetic energy of molecules decreases. This involves understanding the relationship between kinetic energy and molecular movement, as well as how it affects the state of matter (solid, liquid, gas) and molecular interactions.
Answer
They move slower.
When the kinetic energy of molecules decreases, they move slower.
Answer for screen readers
When the kinetic energy of molecules decreases, they move slower.
More Information
When kinetic energy decreases, molecules in different states of matter (solids, liquids, gases) move less vigorously or vibrate less. This impacts phenomena such as temperature changes and phase transitions.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming molecules stop moving entirely when their kinetic energy decreases. They move slower but do not become stationary unless at absolute zero.
Sources
- What happens to molecules when their kinetic energy decreases? - ERP - erp.westernelectric.com
- Lesson 2.1: Heat, Temperature, and Conduction - ACS - acs.org
- What happens when molecules lose energy? - Quora - quora.com
