Which postulate of the kinetic molecular theory best explains why gases can be compressed?

• A. Gas particles are in constant, random motion and move in straight lines until they collide.
• B. Gas particles are separated by large distances relative to their size, so the volume of the particles themselves is negligible compared to the total volume.
• C. Gas particles experience no attractive or repulsive forces between each other.
• D. The average kinetic energy of gas particles is directly proportional to the temperature in kelvins.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Review the postulates of the kinetic molecular theory related to gas behavior.
2. Identify the postulate that addresses the spatial arrangement of gas particles, specifically focusing on the distances between particles relative to their size.
3. Understand that gases can be compressed because the particles are far apart, meaning there is a lot of empty space between them.
4. Recognize that since the volume of individual gas particles is negligible compared to the total volume of the gas, reducing the volume mainly decreases the space between particles without significantly affecting the particles themselves.
5. Conclude that the postulate stating 'Gas particles are separated by large distances relative to their size, so the volume of the particles themselves is negligible compared to the total volume' best explains why gases can be compressed.