Final answer:
The state of matter with the greatest amount of potential energy is gas, while the state with the least amount is solid.
Step-by-step explanation:
The state of matter in which an element has the greatest amount of potential energy is the gas state. In the gas state, the atoms or molecules of the element are more spread out compared to the other states of matter. This leads to more space between the atoms or molecules and increases the potential energy.
On the other hand, the state of matter in which an element has the least amount of potential energy is the solid state. In the solid state, the atoms or molecules are tightly packed together, reducing the amount of space between them. This decrease in space lowers the potential energy.
Chemical energy is the energy that holds atoms together in a molecule or compound. In the gas state, the atoms or molecules have more freedom to move around and interact with each other, leading to a higher amount of potential energy. In the solid state, the atoms or molecules are rigidly held together in a fixed arrangement, resulting in a lower potential energy.
Learn more about States of matter