Which is the best description of what happens when thermal energy is removed from a substance
its particles gain kinetic energy and move more quickly
it loses potential energy
its particles lose kinetic energy and move more slowly
it gains potential energy
I think it might be a but im not sure?
The correct answer is option B: it loses potential energy.
To determine the best description of what happens when thermal energy is removed from a substance, we can analyze the given options:
a) Its particles gain kinetic energy and move more quickly.
b) It loses potential energy.
c) Its particles lose kinetic energy and move more slowly.
d) It gains potential energy.
When thermal energy is removed from a substance, the particles within the substance tend to lose energy and thus decrease their level of motion. This implies that their kinetic energy decreases, and consequently, the substance as a whole cools down.
Based on this understanding, option c) "Its particles lose kinetic energy and move more slowly" is the most accurate description of what happens when thermal energy is removed from a substance.