* Increased Kinetic Energy: The heat energy is absorbed by the particles, causing them to vibrate more vigorously. This increases their kinetic energy.
* Weakened Intermolecular Forces: As the particles vibrate more strongly, the intermolecular forces holding them in a fixed, rigid structure weaken. These forces are responsible for maintaining the solid state.
* Transition to Liquid State: Once the kinetic energy of the particles overcomes the intermolecular forces, the particles break free from their fixed positions. They are now able to move around more freely, which is characteristic of a liquid state.
* Increased Distance Between Particles: In a liquid state, the particles are less tightly packed than in a solid. The increased kinetic energy and weaker intermolecular forces allow for more space between particles.
In summary: Adding heat to a solid increases the kinetic energy of its particles, weakening the intermolecular forces holding them together. This causes the particles to break free from their fixed positions, resulting in a transition from a solid to a liquid state.
