Which of the following statements is consistent with the kinetic-molecular theory?

• A. The average kinetic energy of gas particles decreases as temperature increases.
• B. Gas particles are in constant, random motion and collide elastically with the walls of their container.
• C. Gas particles attract each other strongly, causing them to stick together.
• D. The volume of individual gas particles is significant compared to the total volume of the gas.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the main postulates of the kinetic-molecular theory of gases, which describe the behavior of ideal gas particles.
2. Understand that according to the theory, gas particles are in constant, random motion, moving in straight lines until they collide with either each other or the walls of their container.
3. Recognize that these collisions are elastic, meaning there is no net loss of kinetic energy during collisions.
4. Note that the theory assumes gas particles have negligible volume compared to the container volume and that there are no significant attractive or repulsive forces between particles.
5. Conclude that the statement consistent with the kinetic-molecular theory is that gas particles are in constant, random motion and collide elastically with the walls of their container.