According to the kinetic molecular theory, how do particles of a gas differ from particles of a liquid when placed in the same container?

• A. Gas particles move freely and occupy the entire volume of the container, while liquid particles are closer together and occupy a fixed volume at the bottom.
• B. Gas particles have a definite shape and volume, while liquid particles have neither definite shape nor volume.
• C. Gas particles are tightly packed and vibrate in place, while liquid particles move rapidly and fill the entire container.
• D. Gas particles are attracted strongly to each other, while liquid particles experience no intermolecular forces.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the key assumptions of the kinetic molecular theory regarding gas particles: they are in constant, random motion and move freely to fill the entire volume of their container.
2. Understand that gas particles are far apart compared to liquid particles, which means gases have neither a fixed shape nor a fixed volume, unlike liquids.
3. Recognize that liquid particles are closer together, allowing them to maintain a fixed volume but not a fixed shape, as they take the shape of the container's bottom.
4. Compare the movement of particles: gas particles move rapidly and independently, while liquid particles move more slowly and remain close due to intermolecular forces.
5. Use these differences to evaluate the given options and identify the statement that correctly describes how gas and liquid particles behave in the same container.