According to the kinetic molecular theory, what is the primary cause of gas pressure inside a container such as a helium balloon?

• A. The gravitational attraction between helium atoms
• B. The chemical reactions occurring between helium atoms
• C. The collisions of helium atoms with the walls of the container
• D. The expansion of helium atoms as temperature increases

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the kinetic molecular theory, which explains the behavior of gases based on the motion of their particles.
2. Understand that gas pressure is caused by the force exerted when gas particles collide with the walls of their container.
3. Recognize that gravitational attraction between helium atoms is negligible because helium is a noble gas with very weak intermolecular forces.
4. Note that chemical reactions between helium atoms do not occur under normal conditions because helium is chemically inert.
5. Conclude that the primary cause of gas pressure inside a helium balloon is the collisions of helium atoms with the container walls, as these collisions transfer momentum and exert force on the walls.