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SEC 3 PHYSICS
On the Molecular Level
• We have learnt previously that when
molecules absorb heat energy, they will
start to move faster.
• When the molecules have reached a
certain speed, the energy that they
absorb will now be used to break the
attractive forces between them.
On a Molecular Level (cont’d)
• When the energy absorbed is used to
break the attractive forces between
them, there is no increase in speed.
• Which means energy absorbed can only
be used for either one of the purpose
(break attractive forces OR increase in
speed). Only one change is taking place
at any time.
So what do we see?
• When the energy is used to increase the
speed of the molecule, we see a rise in
temperature of the substance.
• When the energy is used to break attractive
forces between molecules, we see the
substance changing in state.
This energy which brings about a change in
state is known as LATENT HEAT
Changes in States
Gas
CONDENSATION
Loss in heat
Boiling
Liquid
melting
Solid
MELTING AND SOLIDIFICATION
• When a solid changes to a liquid on heating,
we call it melting
In this instance, heat is ABSORBED by the
substance
time
Effect of Impurities on Freezing Point
Example:
I have 2 cups of water, A and B.
I add salt to B. When I try to freeze the water in
both cups, A would freeze at 0oC but B would
freeze maybe at –10oC.
This means B would stay as a liquid even at 0oC
or lower until the temperature reaches –10oC.
When A becomes solid ice at 0oC, B is still liquid.
Effect of Impurities on Freezing Point
The reverse situation would be true. (When melting.)