Physics A-Level
Change of state
What Change of state means in Physics A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Change of state
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Change of state in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A process in which energy is supplied or removed while the temperature stays constant, changing the potential energy of the particle ensemble.
A process at constant temperature in which potential energy changes, so internal energy changes even when kinetic energy does not.
Topics that use Change of state
- Thermal energy transfer (A-level only) (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Conservation of energy
- Energy transfer by heating and work
- First law of thermodynamics
- Ideal gas
- Internal energy
- Internal energy changes in gases
- Mass flow rate
- Power
Using Change of state in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Physics A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge