Which of the following statements is consistent with the kinetic molecular theory?

• A. Gas particles experience strong attractive forces that cause them to stick together.
• B. Gas particles are in constant, random motion and collisions between them are perfectly elastic.
• C. The average kinetic energy of gas particles decreases as temperature increases.
• D. The volume of individual gas particles is significant compared to the total volume of the gas.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the main postulates of the kinetic molecular theory (KMT) of gases, which describe the behavior of ideal gases.
2. Understand that according to KMT, gas particles are in constant, random motion, moving in straight lines until they collide with either the container walls or other particles.
3. Note that collisions between gas particles are considered perfectly elastic, meaning there is no net loss of kinetic energy during collisions.
4. Recognize that KMT assumes negligible attractive or repulsive forces between gas particles, so they do not stick together.
5. Remember that the volume of individual gas particles is assumed to be negligible compared to the total volume of the gas, and that the average kinetic energy of gas particles increases with temperature, not decreases.