Multiple Choice
In the equation for the ideal gas law, PV = nRT, which of the following sets of variables are typically considered unknowns that can be solved for if the other variables are provided?
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7. Gases
The Ideal Gas Law
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The ideal gas law best describes the properties of which of the following gases at 0°C and 1 atm?
A
He
B
H_2O
C
NH_3
D
CO_2
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that the ideal gas law, given by \(PV = nRT\), assumes that gas particles have negligible volume and no intermolecular forces between them.
Understand that gases behave most ideally under conditions of low pressure and high temperature, where interactions between molecules are minimal.
Consider the nature of each gas: Helium (He) is a noble gas with very small, nonpolar atoms and minimal intermolecular forces, making it behave very close to an ideal gas.
In contrast, gases like \(H_2O\), \(NH_3\), and \(CO_2\) have stronger intermolecular forces (hydrogen bonding or dipole interactions), causing deviations from ideal behavior especially near 0°C and 1 atm.
Therefore, among the options, Helium (He) best fits the assumptions of the ideal gas law at 0°C and 1 atm.
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