Question

Two substances, both solids, start at the same temperature. You transfer the same amount of energy into both solids, but substance 1 becomes a liquid before substance 2. Based on this evidence, which substance has a stronger molecular attraction? Explain your answer

Answer 1

Based on the information provided, substance 1 has a stronger molecular attraction than substance 2. When a substance is heated, the energy that is added is used to overcome the forces that hold the molecules together. If the forces of attraction between the molecules are strong, it will take more energy to separate them and cause the substance to change phase from a solid to a liquid. Therefore, if substance 1 becomes a liquid at a lower temperature than substance 2, it must have weaker forces of attraction between its molecules, indicating that substance 2 has a stronger molecular attraction.

Step-by-step explanation: