What is melting, and what energy change accompanies it?

Study for the Cambridge Science – States of Matter Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and explanations for each question. Ready yourself for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is melting, and what energy change accompanies it?

Explanation:
Melting is the change from a solid to a liquid. This process requires energy input, so the energy change is absorption of heat. The heat that goes into melting is called the latent heat of fusion—the energy needed to overcome the solid’s lattice and intermolecular forces at the melting point. While melting occurs at a constant temperature, the added energy goes into changing the state, not raising the temperature, until all the solid has melted. After melting, any further heat raises the temperature of the liquid.

Melting is the change from a solid to a liquid. This process requires energy input, so the energy change is absorption of heat. The heat that goes into melting is called the latent heat of fusion—the energy needed to overcome the solid’s lattice and intermolecular forces at the melting point. While melting occurs at a constant temperature, the added energy goes into changing the state, not raising the temperature, until all the solid has melted. After melting, any further heat raises the temperature of the liquid.

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