Chemistry 11 · Chemistry · Lesson 11.6
Kinetic energy and phase changes
- Level
- Grade 11
- Reading time
- 14 min reading
- Review
- Last reviewed 2026-09-03
- Standard
- Accuracy standard
- Errata
Abstract
How molecular kinetic energy drives physical and phase changes.
Concept preview
What you will be able to do
- 01Name and describe the three types of molecular kinetic energy
- 02Explain how kinetic energy drives physical and phase changes
- 03Relate the temperature–energy graph to particle motion
Kinetic energy is the energy a particle possesses because of its motion, and all molecules are constantly in motion. The higher the temperature, the greater the average kinetic energy of the particles. When you add heat to any sample of matter, the overall effect is to increase the kinetic energy of its particles — they move, rotate and vibrate more vigorously.
School Plan
Kinetic energy and phase changes
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