Which of the following is NOT an assumption of the kinetic molecular theory for a gas?

• A. Gas particles experience no intermolecular forces.
• B. Gas particles lose energy during collisions with each other.
• C. The average kinetic energy of gas particles is proportional to the temperature in kelvins.
• D. Gas particles have negligible volume compared to the container.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the kinetic molecular theory (KMT) describes the behavior of ideal gases based on several key assumptions about gas particles.
2. List the main assumptions of KMT: (1) Gas particles are in constant, random motion; (2) Gas particles have negligible volume compared to the container; (3) Gas particles experience no intermolecular forces; (4) Collisions between gas particles are perfectly elastic, meaning no energy is lost during collisions; (5) The average kinetic energy of gas particles is proportional to the absolute temperature (in kelvins).
3. Analyze each given statement in the problem and compare it to the KMT assumptions: Identify which statement contradicts the assumptions.
4. Note that the statement 'Gas particles lose energy during collisions with each other' contradicts the assumption that collisions are perfectly elastic and no kinetic energy is lost.
5. Conclude that the statement about energy loss during collisions is NOT an assumption of the kinetic molecular theory.