Which of the following best describes the effect of lower potential energy on a chemical system?

• A. It causes the system to absorb more energy from its surroundings.
• B. It makes the system more stable.
• C. It leads to a higher likelihood of spontaneous decomposition.
• D. It increases the system's reactivity.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that potential energy in a chemical system refers to the stored energy due to the positions and interactions of particles (atoms, ions, molecules).
2. Recall that systems tend to move toward states of lower potential energy because these states are generally more stable and energetically favorable.
3. Recognize that when a system has lower potential energy, it is less likely to change spontaneously because it is already in a stable configuration.
4. Note that lower potential energy does not mean the system absorbs more energy; rather, it often means the system has released energy to reach that stable state.
5. Conclude that the best description of the effect of lower potential energy on a chemical system is that it makes the system more stable.