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When the kinetic energy of a system is increased, what happens to the particles?A:

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Answered by GPT-4o mini
When the kinetic energy of a system is increased, the particles within that system generally move faster. This increase in kinetic energy results in several effects depending on the state of the matter:

1. **In Gases**: The particles move more rapidly, which leads to an increase in pressure if the volume is held constant and can result in a rise in temperature. Higher kinetic energy can also mean more frequent and energetic collisions between gas particles.

2. **In Liquids**: An increase in kinetic energy causes the particles to move more vigorously, which can result in a decrease in viscosity, making the liquid flow more easily. If the temperature continues to rise, it can lead to the phase transition to gas (evaporation).

3. **In Solids**: While the particles in solids are more restricted in their movement (primarily vibrating in place), increasing kinetic energy can intensify these vibrations. If the temperature becomes high enough, it may eventually lead to a phase transition into a liquid (melting).

Overall, increased kinetic energy of a system results in greater particle motion, which can affect temperature, pressure, and state of the material.

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