Final answer:
A change in thermal energy can cause matter to change from one state to another through phase changes. For example, when ice is heated, it melts and changes into a liquid state. Similarly, when water is heated to its boiling point, it vaporizes and changes into a gaseous state.
Step-by-step explanation:
A change in thermal energy can cause matter to change from one state to another through phase changes. When thermal energy is added to a substance, its temperature increases, and it may undergo phase changes such as melting, vaporization, or sublimation. For example, when a solid is heated, such as ice, its thermal energy increases, causing it to melt and change into a liquid state. Similarly, when a liquid, like water, is heated to its boiling point, it undergoes vaporization and changes into a gaseous state. These phase changes occur because the added thermal energy breaks the bonds between molecules, allowing them to move more freely and change their arrangement.