Question

which process most likely takes place when the kinetic energy of molecules overcomes the intermolecular forces?

• boiling
• condensation
• freezing
• solidification

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each process:

• Boiling: Molecules gain enough kinetic energy to overcome intermolecular forces, transitioning from liquid to gas.
• Condensation: Gas to liquid, intermolecular forces increase (molecules come closer), so kinetic energy is not overcoming forces.
• Freezing: Liquid to solid, molecules slow down, intermolecular forces dominate (kinetic energy decreases, not overcoming).
• Solidification: Same as freezing, liquid to solid, intermolecular forces take over.

So boiling is when kinetic energy overcomes intermolecular forces.

Answer:

boiling