Internal energy Flashcards
1
Q
What is internal energy?
A
The sum of the randomly distributed kinetic and potential energies of atoms or molecules within the substance.
2
Q
How can you increase the internal energy of a body?
A
- Increasing temperature: Average KE will increase therefore internal energy increases
- Change phase: Electrostatic potential energy increases significantly
3
Q
What is the electrostatic potential energy in a Gas and why?
A
Zero because there are negligible electrical forces between atoms or molecules.
4
Q
What is the electrostatic potential energy in a Liquid and why?
A
Negative because energy needs to be supplied to break the atomic or molecular bonds.
5
Q
What is the electrostatic potential energy in a Solid and why?
A
Large negative value because electrostatic forces are very large.
