In an isolated system, is it possible for a change of physical state (such as melting or boiling) to occur?

• A. Yes, if the system contains enough energy for the phase change.
• B. Yes, but only chemical changes can occur in isolated systems.
• C. No, isolated systems cannot undergo any changes.
• D. No, physical state changes require interaction with the surroundings.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of an isolated system: it does not exchange matter or energy with its surroundings.
2. Recall that phase changes (like melting or boiling) require energy to overcome intermolecular forces, known as latent heat.
3. Since an isolated system cannot gain or lose energy externally, any phase change must be driven by energy already present within the system.
4. If the system initially contains enough internal energy (for example, stored as heat), it can undergo a physical state change without external input.
5. Therefore, it is possible for a phase change to occur in an isolated system, provided the system has sufficient internal energy to support the transition.