According to the kinetic-molecular theory, what is the primary cause of the pressure exerted by a gas in a container?

• A. The volume occupied by the gas particles themselves
• B. The collisions of gas particles with the walls of the container
• C. The attraction between gas particles
• D. The temperature of the container walls

Answer: (B)

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 particles are in constant, random motion and move in straight lines until they collide with something.
3. Recognize that the pressure exerted by a gas on the walls of its container arises from the force of these collisions of gas particles with the container walls.
4. Note that the volume occupied by the gas particles themselves is negligible compared to the container volume and does not directly cause pressure.
5. Also, understand that while temperature affects the speed of particles, and attractions can influence behavior, the primary cause of pressure is the collisions of particles with the container walls.