When heat is removed from water, what happens to the water molecules?

• A. They move more slowly and may form stronger intermolecular attractions.
• B. They become less attracted to each other and spread farther apart.
• C. They gain energy and evaporate more quickly.
• D. They move faster and break apart into individual atoms.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that heat removal from water means the water is losing thermal energy.
2. Recall that thermal energy affects the kinetic energy of molecules, so when heat is removed, the water molecules lose kinetic energy and move more slowly.
3. Recognize that slower-moving molecules have less energy to overcome intermolecular forces, so the attractions between water molecules become stronger.
4. Consider that stronger intermolecular attractions can lead to the molecules coming closer together, potentially leading to phase changes like freezing if enough heat is removed.
5. Conclude that the correct description is that water molecules move more slowly and may form stronger intermolecular attractions when heat is removed.