According to the kinetic molecular theory, why do gases diffuse faster than liquids?

• A. Gas particles move more rapidly and have greater average kinetic energy than liquid particles.
• B. Gases have a higher density than liquids, leading to faster diffusion.
• C. Gas particles are larger and heavier than liquid particles, allowing them to diffuse faster.
• D. Gases have stronger intermolecular forces than liquids, which increases their rate of diffusion.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the kinetic molecular theory, which explains the behavior of particles in different states of matter based on their motion and energy.
2. Understand that diffusion is the process by which particles spread from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration due to their random motion.
3. Recognize that gas particles have much higher average kinetic energy compared to liquid particles, meaning they move faster on average.
4. Note that because gas particles move more rapidly and are farther apart, they collide less frequently and can spread out more quickly than liquid particles.
5. Conclude that the faster movement and higher kinetic energy of gas particles cause gases to diffuse faster than liquids, unlike factors such as density, particle size, or intermolecular forces which do not support faster diffusion in gases.