Which of the following is a postulate of the kinetic molecular theory?

• A. Gas particles attract each other strongly.
• B. The volume of a gas particle is significant compared to the volume of the container.
• C. Gas particles lose energy during collisions.
• D. Gas particles are in constant, random motion.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the kinetic molecular theory explains the behavior of gases based on the motion and interactions of gas particles.
2. Identify the key postulates of the kinetic molecular theory, which include: gas particles are in constant, random motion; the volume of individual gas particles is negligible compared to the container volume; gas particles do not attract or repel each other significantly; and collisions between gas particles are elastic, meaning no net loss of kinetic energy.
3. Evaluate each given statement against these postulates: - 'Gas particles attract each other strongly' contradicts the assumption that there are negligible intermolecular forces. - 'The volume of a gas particle is significant compared to the volume of the container' contradicts the assumption that particle volume is negligible. - 'Gas particles lose energy during collisions' contradicts the assumption that collisions are elastic.
4. Recognize that the statement 'Gas particles are in constant, random motion' aligns perfectly with the kinetic molecular theory's description of gas behavior.
5. Conclude that the correct postulate from the options given is that gas particles are in constant, random motion.