What occurs to the potential energy of particles when their arrangement changes (Internal energy)

The correct answer is It increases or decreases depending on the arrangement.

Cause lens: Name the cause, then state the effect on particles, pressure, density, or energy. This question asks: What occurs to the potential energy of particles when their arrangement changes (Internal energy). The correct response is It increases or decreases depending on the arrangement, because the particle model explains the observable property using particles. In Internal energy, the marking point should connect directly to explain that heating changes the energy stored within a system by increasing particle energy. If the question includes values, the working must keep the appropriate unit and operation; if it is an explanation, it must name the relevant particle behaviour or energy change. This item belongs to Internal energy and energy transfers, so avoid answers that switch to a different quantity, confuse heat with temperature, or describe gas pressure without collisions when collisions are the reason. Checkpoint 220 is distinct because it uses this exact question context and the cause lens rather than a generic particle-model sentence.