Question

As an object is heated the molecules A lose kinetic energy, b contract and get closer together, C take up more space because they have more energy

Answer 1

When an object is heated, the primary effect on its molecules is that they gain kinetic energy. Here’s how it generally works:

- **A. Lose kinetic energy**: This is incorrect. As temperature rises, molecules gain kinetic energy, not lose it. They move faster as they are heated.

- **B. Contract and get closer together**: This is also generally incorrect in most cases. While cooling does lead to contraction in solids and some liquids, most materials expand when heated. The increased kinetic energy causes the molecules to move apart, making the object occupy more space.

- **C. Take up more space because they have more energy**: This statement is correct. When the molecules gain kinetic energy from heating, they tend to move more vigorously and spread apart, resulting in an increase in the volume of the material. This phenomenon is known as thermal expansion.

In summary, when an object is heated, its molecules gain kinetic energy and generally take up more space due to thermal expansion.