* Temperature and Kinetic Energy: Temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of the particles in a substance. Kinetic energy is the energy of motion.
* Increased Motion: As the temperature rises, the particles absorb more energy. This extra energy causes them to move faster, resulting in:
* Higher average speed: The particles collide with each other and the walls of their container more frequently and with greater force.
* Increased vibrational motion: The particles themselves vibrate more vigorously.
* Expansion: In gases, the particles are already relatively far apart. Increased motion leads to greater collisions and pressure, causing the gas to expand.
Think of it like this: Imagine a group of people standing still. That's a low-temperature gas. Now, imagine them all running around. That's a higher-temperature gas with more motion.
