The potential energy of a molecule increases when it is brought to the...
When the surface area of the liquid is increased molecules from the interior of the liquid rise to surface . As these molecules reach the surface work is done against the cohesive force.This work is stored in the molecules in the form of potential energy .Thus , the potential energy of the molecules lying in the surface is increases than that of the molecules in the interior of the liquid.
The potential energy of a molecule increases when it is brought to the...
Understanding Potential Energy in Liquids
When a molecule is moved from the interior of a liquid to the surface, its potential energy changes due to several factors. Here’s a detailed explanation of why option 'B' is correct.
Intermolecular Forces
- Attraction vs. Repulsion: Inside the liquid, molecules are surrounded by other molecules, creating a balance of intermolecular forces. When a molecule is at the surface, it experiences a net attraction from the molecules below and a lack of attraction from the air above.
- Work Against Forces: To bring a molecule to the surface, work must be done to overcome these attractive forces. This is primarily due to the cohesive forces acting between the molecules in the liquid. The work done against these forces increases the potential energy of the molecule.
Gravitational Potential Energy
- Surface vs. Interior: While gravitational potential energy does increase when moving to a higher position, in the context of liquids, the primary factor affecting potential energy when moving to the surface is the work done against intermolecular forces rather than just gravitational energy.
Temperature Considerations
- Temperature Effects: The statement regarding temperature is misleading. The surface temperature is not consistently higher than the interior; thus, it does not significantly contribute to the increase in potential energy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the correct answer is option 'B' because the increase in potential energy of the molecule is primarily due to the work required to overcome the attractive forces from other molecules, which is a key factor when considering molecular behavior at the surface of a liquid.
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