Which of the following is NOT an assumption of the kinetic molecular theory of gases?

• A. Gas particles are in constant, random motion.
• B. The volume of individual gas particles is negligible compared to the total volume of the container.
• C. Gas particles experience strong attractive and repulsive forces.
• D. Collisions between gas particles are perfectly elastic.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the kinetic molecular theory (KMT) of gases is based on several key assumptions that describe the behavior of ideal gases.
2. List the main assumptions of KMT: (1) Gas particles are in constant, random motion; (2) The volume of individual gas particles is negligible compared to the total volume of the container; (3) Collisions between gas particles are perfectly elastic; (4) There are no forces of attraction or repulsion between gas particles.
3. Analyze each given statement in the problem and compare it to the KMT assumptions.
4. Identify that the statement 'Gas particles experience strong attractive and repulsive forces' contradicts the KMT assumption that there are no intermolecular forces between gas particles.
5. Conclude that the statement about strong attractive and repulsive forces is NOT an assumption of the kinetic molecular theory of gases.