Heating up a solution of molecules will result in which of the following events?

• A. A decrease in the average kinetic energy of the molecules
• B. The solution will freeze
• C. An increase in the average kinetic energy of the molecules
• D. The molecules will stop moving completely

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the relationship between temperature and kinetic energy: Temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of the molecules in a substance.
2. Recall that heating a solution means adding thermal energy to it, which increases the energy of the molecules.
3. Recognize that as the molecules gain energy, their motion becomes more vigorous, meaning their average kinetic energy increases.
4. Note that freezing occurs when a solution loses heat and the molecules slow down and arrange into a solid structure, which is the opposite of heating.
5. Conclude that heating a solution cannot cause the molecules to stop moving; instead, it increases their average kinetic energy.