Final answer:
True, all molecules and ions are in continuous random motion at temperatures above absolute zero due to thermal energy. The motion increases as the temperature rises, in accordance with the kinetic theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that 'all molecules and ions are in continuous random motion at temperatures above absolute zero as a result of thermal (heat) energy' is true. This continuous random motion is due to the fact that thermal energy, or the energy associated with heat, is the average kinetic energy of the particles in a substance. At absolute zero, theoretical molecular motion ceases; however, at any temperature above that, particles have kinetic energy and are in motion. The kinetic theory of gases explains that the properties of matter are due to the continuous random motion of its atoms and molecules, which is clearly observable in the behavior of gases but also applies to liquids and solids.
The temperature of a substance is directly proportional to the average translational kinetic energy of its constituent atoms and molecules. Therefore, as temperature increases, so does the kinetic energy and the rate of particle movement. This principle is foundational to understanding the kinetic-molecular theory and the behavior of gases as described by the ideal gas law.