Which of the following is a postulate of the kinetic molecular theory of gases?

• A. The volume of a gas particle is significant compared to the total volume of the gas.
• B. The average kinetic energy of gas particles decreases as temperature increases.
• C. Gas particles attract each other strongly at all times.
• D. Gas particles are in constant, random motion and collide elastically with the walls of the container.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the kinetic molecular theory of gases is a model that explains the behavior of ideal gases based on the motion of their particles.
2. Identify the key postulates of the kinetic molecular theory, which include: gas particles are in constant, random motion; the volume of individual gas particles is negligible compared to the container volume; gas particles do not attract or repel each other; and collisions between gas particles and with container walls are perfectly elastic.
3. Evaluate each given statement against these postulates: the volume of gas particles is considered negligible, so the first statement is incorrect; the average kinetic energy increases with temperature, so the second statement is incorrect; gas particles do not attract each other, so the third statement is incorrect.
4. Recognize that the correct postulate is that gas particles are in constant, random motion and collide elastically with the walls of the container, which explains pressure and temperature relationships in gases.
5. Conclude that the correct answer aligns with the fundamental assumptions of the kinetic molecular theory, emphasizing particle motion and elastic collisions.