# Explain why the melting point of a substance depends on the strength of the forces between its particles.

> WJEC GCSE Chemistry (Wales) — 2.1 Bonding, structure and properties · Explain · 4 marks

> When a solid is heated, it eventually melts. Different substances melt at very different temperatures.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Energy is needed to overcome / break the forces between particles
2. Stronger forces between particles require more energy to overcome
3. A higher temperature is needed to supply this greater energy
4. Therefore substances with stronger forces between their particles have higher melting points

## Key terms

- [melting point](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/melting-point)

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC GCSE Chemistry (Wales)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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