When heat is added to a substance, which of the following typically occurs?

• A. The temperature of the substance increases.
• B. The substance always undergoes an exothermic reaction.
• C. The substance loses energy to its surroundings.
• D. The substance's mass increases.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of heat transfer: When heat is added to a substance, energy is transferred to the substance, which can affect its temperature or phase.
2. Recall that adding heat to a substance generally increases the kinetic energy of its particles, which usually causes the temperature of the substance to rise.
3. Recognize that an exothermic reaction releases heat to the surroundings, so adding heat to a substance does not mean it undergoes an exothermic reaction; rather, it would be absorbing heat (endothermic process).
4. Know that when a substance gains heat, it does not lose energy to its surroundings; instead, it gains energy from the surroundings.
5. Understand that adding heat does not change the mass of the substance, as mass is conserved unless there is a chemical reaction involving mass transfer.