Question

One way to meet this requirement is by an input of heat, which in some cases need only be an initial, transient input. Think of an example, and explain what this accomplishes in molecular terms.

Answer 1

The input of heat energy during the process of melting allows solid molecules to gain enough kinetic energy to transition to the liquid state, resulting in a temperature increase.

Step-by-step explanation:

One example of an input of heat that accomplishes a temperature rise in molecular terms is the process of melting. When a solid substance, such as ice, is heated, the input of heat energy causes the intermolecular forces between the molecules to weaken. As a result, the molecules gain enough kinetic energy to break free from their fixed positions and transition to the liquid state. This is observed as a temperature increase.

The input of heat energy overcomes the attractive forces between the molecules in the solid, allowing them to move more freely. The increased kinetic energy leads to a higher temperature. Once all the solid has melted, further heating will cause the temperature to rise continuously as the liquid absorbs more heat energy.