Question

Describe what happens to the potential energy of the CO₂ molecule as it undergoes a phase change.

a) Increases
b) Decreases
c) Remains constant
d) Fluctuates

Answer 1

The potential energy of the CO₂ molecule generally increases as it undergoes a phase change.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a CO₂ molecule undergoes a phase change, there is a change in the potential energy of the molecule.

During phase changes, such as from solid to liquid or liquid to gas, the potential energy of the molecule generally increases. This is because the intermolecular forces holding the molecules together weaken, and the molecules gain more freedom to move around. As a result, the potential energy of the molecule increases.