How can changing the arrangement of particles affect their potential energy (Internal energy)

The correct answer is By changing the state of the substance.

Particle lens: Describe arrangement, motion, spacing, collisions, or energy changes only when they are relevant here. This question asks: How can changing the arrangement of particles affect their potential energy (Internal energy). The correct response is By changing the state of the substance, because internal energy combines particle kinetic and potential energy. In Internal energy, the marking point should connect directly to use particle motion and particle arrangement to describe changes in internal 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 264 is distinct because it uses this exact question context and the particle lens rather than a generic particle-model sentence.