The melting point is reached when sufficient energy has been added to the molecules in a substance to overcome the intermolecular forces holding them stationary.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is a correct explanation of how melting occurs in a substance. The intermolecular forces like hydrogen bonding or Van der Waals forces between the molecules keep them in a fixed position in the solid state. When heat energy is applied, it provides enough kinetic energy to the molecules to overcome the intermolecular forces and move away from their fixed positions. The point at which the molecules start to move freely and the solid changes state to a liquid is called the melting point.

The Melting Point Is Reached When Sufficient Energy Has Been