A liquid is left in an open dish. After several days, there is less liquid...
PHYSICS
WAEC 2023
A liquid is left in an open dish. After several days, there is less liquid in the dish. Which of the following statements explains this observation? The
- A. most energetic molecules leave the surface and escape into the air.
- B. least energetic molecules leave the surface and escape into air.
- C. most energetic molecules leave the surface and return.
- D. least energetic molecules leave the surface and return.
Correct Answer: A. most energetic molecules leave the surface and escape into the air.
Explanation
This phenomenon is known as evaporation. In a liquid, molecules have varying energies, and the molecules with higher kinetic energies (the most energetic ones) are more likely to overcome the attractive forces within the liquid and transition into the gaseous phase. These molecules escape from the surface of the liquid into the air, gradually reducing the amount of liquid in the open dish. Evaporation is a process that occurs continuously as long as there is a liquid exposed to the air.
Post an Explanation Or Report an Error
If you see any wrong question or answer, please leave a comment below and we'll take a look. If you doubt why the selected answer is correct or need additional more details? Please drop a comment or Contact us directly. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *