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molecules in solid or liquid or gas gain kinetic energy when heated. why is it like this? I request explanation in details please

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    $\begingroup$ Kinetic energy of molecules is heat. Why the molecules gain heat when heated, really? $\endgroup$ – Ivan Neretin Jan 10 '17 at 22:33
  • $\begingroup$ Though this question may seem simple or self explanatory to many, I try to support others in their curiosity :) $\endgroup$ – GiantSpruce Jan 31 '17 at 0:57
  • $\begingroup$ @IvanNeretin, kinetic energy of molecules together with their potential energy is internal energy, heat is one of the means of changing this energy. $\endgroup$ – Wildcat Jan 31 '17 at 10:18
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Heat is a form of kinetic energy. Thus, the heating of a molecule is simply the transfer of energy from the heat source to the molecular bonds and electrons.

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  • $\begingroup$ I would be careful in calling heat "a form of energy". It is one of the two means of energy transfer for the case of a closed thermodynamic system (with another one being work). Or, the amount of energy spontaneously flowing from/to a closed system due to a temperature difference between the system and it surroundings by means other than through work. $\endgroup$ – Wildcat Jan 31 '17 at 10:07
  • $\begingroup$ Then, transferring heat changes internal energy of a system, which, in fact, is the sum of the kinetic and potential energies of the particles that form the system. $\endgroup$ – Wildcat Jan 31 '17 at 10:13

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