During the process of evaporation, a liquid cools down. Which of the following statements correctly explains this cooling effect?
The least energetic molecules leave the surface, increasing the average kinetic energy of the remaining molecules.
The most energetic molecules leave the surface, decreasing the average kinetic energy of the remaining molecules.
The remaining molecules lose kinetic energy as they collide with the walls of the container.
The liquid absorbs coldness from the surrounding atmosphere.
528 exam-style questions on CIE IGCSE Physics 2.2 Thermal properties and temperature, covering 2.2.1 Thermal expansion of solids, liquids and gases, 2.2.2a Internal energy and temperature, 2.2.2b Specific heat capacity, 2.2.3a Melting, boiling, condensation and solidification, 2.2.3b Evaporation, and 2.2.3c Cooling by evaporation. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.