Atoms and molecules are constantly in motion. The more kinetic energy atoms or molecules have, the faster they move about. In which state of matter do the atoms and molecules have the least kinetic energy?

Question

a
gas
b
solid
c
liquid
d
not enough information to determine

Answer 1

The state of matter in which the atoms and molecules have the least kinetic energy is:

b) solid

In a solid, the particles are closely packed together and have limited movement, mainly vibrating in place, which results in lower kinetic energy compared to liquids and gases, where particles have more freedom to move and therefore higher kinetic energy.