When atoms lose energy during a change of state, which of the following is most likely to occur?

• A. The temperature of the substance increases.
• B. The substance changes from a solid to a liquid or from a liquid to a gas.
• C. The atoms increase their kinetic energy and move faster.
• D. The substance changes from a gas to a liquid or from a liquid to a solid.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that when atoms or molecules lose energy during a change of state, they typically release heat to the surroundings.
2. Recall that losing energy means the particles have less kinetic energy, so they move more slowly.
3. Recognize that a decrease in kinetic energy causes the substance to change from a higher-energy state to a lower-energy state, such as from gas to liquid or liquid to solid.
4. Note that temperature does not increase when energy is lost; instead, it usually decreases or remains constant during a phase change.
5. Conclude that the correct description of losing energy during a change of state is the substance changing from gas to liquid (condensation) or from liquid to solid (freezing).