When thermal energy is applied to a substance, several things can happen:
1. The substance's temperature can increase: When thermal energy is added to a substance, its particles start to vibrate more vigorously and move faster, causing an increase in its temperature. This is because the thermal energy is converted into kinetic energy of the particles.
2. The substance may undergo a phase change: If the substance reaches its boiling or melting point, the added thermal energy can cause it to change from solid to liquid (melting) or from liquid to gas (boiling). During these phase changes, the molecules gain enough energy to overcome the forces holding them together and change their state.
3. The substance may expand or contract: As the substance gains thermal energy, the molecules move faster and occupy more space, causing expansion. Conversely, when the substance loses thermal energy, the molecules slow down and move closer together, resulting in contraction.
4. Chemical reactions may occur: Very high temperatures can cause chemical reactions to occur, breaking or forming chemical bonds. This is particularly relevant in cases of combustion or high-temperature industrial processes.
Overall, the applied thermal energy can lead to physical and chemical changes in the substance, affecting its temperature, phase, and structure.
What happens to the thermal energy is applied to a substance
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