Ace the MTEL Adventure 2025 – Educator's Path to Success!

Question: 1 / 400

What happens to molecules at higher temperatures?

They become denser

They move slower

They move faster

At higher temperatures, molecules have higher kinetic energy, which causes them to move faster. This increased movement is a result of the thermal energy overcoming intermolecular forces, allowing molecules to vibrate, rotate, and translate more vigorously. This effect is observed in nearly all states of matter; for instance, in gases, particles move rapidly and freely; in liquids, they flow more easily; and even in solids, the increased heat can allow for greater vibrational movement of the particles.

The other options do not accurately represent the behavior of molecules at higher temperatures. For example, density typically decreases as temperatures rise because substances tend to expand when heated, leading to lower density. Moreover, faster molecular motion contradicts the idea of slower movement, and increased thermal energy does not facilitate quick freezing; instead, it usually prevents it as energy is required for a phase change from liquid to solid. Therefore, the statement about molecules moving faster at higher temperatures is correct and fundamental in understanding molecular behavior in thermodynamics.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

They freeze more quickly

Next Question

Report this question

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy