Energy stored by particles
Internal energy, : the total kinetic energy and total potential energy of all the particles in a body, with these microscopic energies distributed randomly among the particles.
Particles within a substance have a range of speeds and separations, so their individual kinetic and potential energies are not all equal.
- Kinetic energy is associated with particle motion.
- Potential energy depends on particle separation and intermolecular interactions.
- Internal energy is measured in joules (J).
Heating can raise internal energy by increasing particle kinetic energy. A change of state can also alter internal energy because the potential energy of the particle ensemble changes.
Changing internal energy
| Process | Energy transfer | Effect on |
|---|---|---|
| System is heated | Energy enters the system | Increases |
| Work is done on the system | Energy enters the system mechanically | Increases |
| System transfers energy away by heating | Energy leaves the system | Decreases |
| System does work | Energy is transferred to the surroundings | Decreases |
Exam Tip: In a definition of internal energy, include both the kinetic and potential energies of the particles and make clear that these energies are randomly distributed.