The potential energy of molecule on the surface of a liquid as compared to in side the liquid is

Options

A. zero
B. lesser
C. equal
D. greater

Answer

D

Explanation

When the surface area of a liquid is increased, molecules from the interior of the liquid rise to the surface. As these molecules reach the surface work is done against the cohesive force. This work is stored in the molecules in the form of potential energy. Thus the potential energy of the molecules lying in the surface is greater than that of the molecules in the interior of the liquid.