Final answer:
Yes, a change of physical state can occur in an isolated system as it relies on the internal energy and forces between particles, without requiring exchange with the environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Is it possible for a change of physical state to occur in an isolated system? The answer is yes, it is possible for a change of physical state to occur in an isolated system because physical changes such as melting, vaporization, freezing, and condensation do not require matter or energy to be transferred into or out of the system. These changes can occur as a result of the internal energy and the forces between atoms and molecules within the system.
When a substance undergoes a state change, such as from solid to liquid or liquid to gas, a force is exerted to separate the atoms and molecules, which can happen through collisions within the system. This exertion of force is a form of work, indicating that energy is involved in the transition. In an isolated system, energy is conserved, which means that the phase change will utilize the system's internal energy without the exchange of energy with the environment.