Which term describes the energy stored due to molecular motion?

• A. Temperature
• B. Thermal energy
• C. Heat
• D. Sublimation

Answer: (B)

Energy stored in a substance because of the motion and interactions of its molecules is thermal energy. This is the total internal energy—the sum of all kinetic energy from translational, rotational, and vibrational motions, plus any potential energy from intermolecular forces. Temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy per molecule, not the total stored energy itself. Heat is energy in transit caused by a temperature difference, not the energy stored inside a substance. Sublimation is a phase change, not a form of stored energy. So the best term for the energy stored due to molecular motion is thermal energy.