Which statement is consistent with the kinetic-molecular theory?

• A. Gas particles lose energy with each collision, eventually coming to rest.
• B. Gas particles are in constant, random motion and collisions between them are perfectly elastic.
• C. The volume of individual gas particles is significant compared to the total volume of the gas.
• D. Gas particles attract each other strongly, causing them to slow down over time.

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 the container walls or other particles.
3. Recognize that collisions between gas particles are considered perfectly elastic, meaning there is no net loss of kinetic energy during collisions.
4. Note that the volume of individual gas particles is assumed to be negligible compared to the total volume of the gas, so their size does not significantly affect gas behavior.
5. Acknowledge that the theory assumes no significant attractive or repulsive forces between gas particles, so they do not slow down or lose energy over time due to interactions.