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Internal Energy

Particle Model

Internal Energy

To explain what internal energy is and how heating can change a substance’s temperature or state.

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What you will learn

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What internal energy means

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How particles have kinetic and potential energy

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How heating changes a substance’s internal energy

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Why temperature is linked to average particle kinetic energy

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Why internal energy and temperature are not the same

Explanation

Internal energy is the total kinetic and potential energy of all particles in a system. Heating can increase particle kinetic energy and temperature, or increase potential energy during a change of state. Temperature relates to average particle kinetic energy, whereas internal energy also depends on the amount of substance and particle interactions. Example: Explain a temperature rise without state change. Average particle kinetic energy increases. Use clear labels. Give a reason. Compare cases.

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