According to the kinetic molecular theory, how do molecules move in a liquid?

• A. They move freely and rapidly in all directions, far apart from each other.
• B. They are stationary and only rotate in place.
• C. They vibrate in fixed positions and do not move past each other.
• D. They move randomly but are close together, sliding past one another.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the kinetic molecular theory, which describes the behavior of particles in different states of matter: solids, liquids, and gases.
2. Understand that in solids, molecules vibrate in fixed positions and do not move past each other, maintaining a rigid structure.
3. In gases, molecules move freely and rapidly in all directions, far apart from each other, with minimal interaction.
4. For liquids, molecules are close together but not fixed; they move randomly and slide past one another, allowing liquids to flow while maintaining a definite volume.
5. Therefore, according to the kinetic molecular theory, molecules in a liquid move randomly but remain close together, sliding past each other.