How does the kinetic particle theory explain melting?

The kinetic particle theory explains melting as the process where particles gain enough energy to overcome intermolecular forces and move freely.

In more detail, the kinetic particle theory is a concept that helps us understand the behaviour of matter in different states - solid, liquid and gas. According to this theory, all matter is composed of tiny particles that are constantly in motion. The energy of this motion is what we refer to as kinetic energy.

In the solid state, particles are closely packed together in a fixed, regular pattern and vibrate about fixed positions. They have low kinetic energy and strong intermolecular forces hold them together. When a solid is heated, the particles gain kinetic energy. This energy makes the particles vibrate faster and with greater amplitude.

Melting occurs at a specific temperature called the melting point. At this temperature, the particles have gained enough kinetic energy to overcome the strong intermolecular forces holding them in their fixed positions. They start to move more freely and the solid begins to turn into a liquid. This is the process of melting.

In the liquid state, the particles are still close together but can move past each other and are not held in a fixed position. The intermolecular forces are weaker compared to the solid state, but stronger than in the gaseous state. The particles in a liquid have more kinetic energy than those in a solid, but less than those in a gas.

In summary, the kinetic particle theory explains melting as a process where particles in a solid gain enough kinetic energy to overcome the intermolecular forces holding them in fixed positions, allowing them to move more freely and transition into a liquid state.