According to the kinetic molecular theory, which factor primarily determines the direction and degree of diffusion of a gas?

• A. The color of the gas
• B. The atomic number of the gas particles
• C. The shape of the container
• D. The concentration gradient of the gas

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that diffusion is the process by which gas particles spread from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.
2. Recall that according to the kinetic molecular theory, gas particles are in constant, random motion and tend to move to equalize concentration differences.
3. Identify that the primary factor influencing the direction and degree of diffusion is the concentration gradient, which is the difference in concentration between two regions.
4. Recognize that other factors like the color of the gas, atomic number, or container shape do not directly determine the direction or extent of diffusion.
5. Conclude that the concentration gradient drives diffusion because particles naturally move from regions of high concentration to low concentration to achieve equilibrium.