Question detail
What happens to the potential energy of particles during a change of state (Changes of state and specific latent heat)
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Internal energy and energy transfers
Question
- A. It decreases
- B. It increases
- C. It remains the same
- D. It becomes kinetic energy
Answer
The correct answer is It increases.
Explanation
Exam lens: Write the relationship, substitute values only when needed, and finish by interpreting the result. This question asks: What happens to the potential energy of particles during a change of state (Changes of state and specific latent heat). The correct response is It increases, because changes of state are explained by particle energy and arrangement. In Changes of state and specific latent heat, the marking point should connect directly to interpret heating and cooling graphs that show temperature changes and flat sections during changes of state. 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 431 is distinct because it uses this exact question context and the exam lens rather than a generic particle-model sentence.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Flat Sections
Students often misinterpret the flat sections of heating and cooling graphs as periods of no energy transfer.
Explain that during these flat sections, energy is being transferred to change the state of the substance, even though the temperature remains constant.
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