According to the kinetic molecular theory, how do the molecules in a gas compare to those in a solid?

• A. Gas molecules move freely and rapidly, while solid molecules vibrate in fixed positions.
• B. Gas molecules are tightly packed together, while solid molecules are far apart.
• C. Gas molecules have strong intermolecular forces, while solid molecules have weak intermolecular forces.
• D. Gas molecules do not move at all, while solid molecules move rapidly.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the kinetic molecular theory, which describes the behavior of particles in different states of matter based on their motion and arrangement.
2. Understand that in solids, molecules are closely packed in a fixed, orderly arrangement and primarily vibrate in place without changing positions.
3. Recognize that in gases, molecules are far apart and move freely and rapidly in all directions, with minimal intermolecular forces acting between them.
4. Compare the molecular motion: gas molecules have high kinetic energy allowing them to move independently, whereas solid molecules have limited motion restricted to vibrations.
5. Conclude that the key difference is that gas molecules move freely and rapidly, while solid molecules vibrate in fixed positions.