Final answer:
When thermal energy is transferred to a substance, its particles can gain kinetic and potential energy, leading to changes in temperature and possible phase changes, which reflect an alteration in the substance's internal energy. The correct answer is The particles can gain potential and kinetic energy.
Step-by-step explanation:
When thermal energy is transferred to a substance, the particles can gain kinetic energy, and in many cases, there can also be an increase in potential energy. This is because the molecules in the substance begin to move at a higher velocity, which increases both their kinetic and potential energies. For instance, during a phase change, such as melting or vaporizing, the potential energy of particles increases as the structure of the substance changes. Similarly, as substances cool down (like during condensation or freezing), the thermal energy decreases, resulting in less motion of the particles and hence lower kinetic and potential energy.
Kinetic Energy and Temperature:
The temperature of a substance is related to the average kinetic energy of its particles. As a substance heats up, the motion of the particles increases, which is reflected in a rise in temperature. This enhanced motion indicates that thermal energy has been converted into kinetic energy within the substance.