Which phrase best describes the motion and attractive forces of ideal gas particles according to the kinetic molecular theory?

• A. Particles move slowly and frequently collide due to strong intermolecular attractions.
• B. Particles move in constant, random motion and experience negligible attractive forces.
• C. Particles move in circular paths and experience moderate attractive forces.
• D. Particles vibrate in fixed positions and experience strong attractive forces.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the key postulates of the kinetic molecular theory (KMT) for ideal gases, which describe the behavior of gas particles.
2. Understand that according to KMT, gas particles are in constant, random motion, meaning they move continuously in straight lines until they collide with either the container walls or other particles.
3. Recognize that ideal gas particles are assumed to have negligible volume and experience negligible intermolecular attractive or repulsive forces, which means they do not stick together or influence each other's motion significantly.
4. Note that collisions between ideal gas particles are perfectly elastic, meaning no energy is lost during collisions, and the particles do not move in fixed or circular paths.
5. Conclude that the phrase 'Particles move in constant, random motion and experience negligible attractive forces' best describes the motion and forces of ideal gas particles according to the kinetic molecular theory.