How does adding energy to a solid affect the motion of its particles?

• A. The particles lose energy and slow down.
• B. The particles move farther apart and form a gas immediately.
• C. The particles stop moving completely.
• D. The particles vibrate more rapidly.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that solids have particles arranged in a fixed, closely packed structure where particles vibrate in place but do not move freely.
2. Recognize that adding energy to a solid typically means increasing its temperature, which increases the kinetic energy of the particles.
3. Know that as the particles gain kinetic energy, they vibrate more rapidly around their fixed positions within the solid structure.
4. Note that this increased vibration does not immediately cause the particles to move farther apart or change state; the solid remains solid until enough energy is added to overcome intermolecular forces.
5. Conclude that the correct effect of adding energy to a solid is that the particles vibrate more rapidly, reflecting increased motion but not a change in phase yet.