Which statement best describes the particles of an ideal gas according to the kinetic molecular theory?

• A. They attract each other strongly and occupy a significant portion of the container.
• B. They have negligible volume and experience no intermolecular forces.
• C. They move in circular paths and frequently lose energy during collisions.
• D. They are stationary and only vibrate in place.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the key postulates of the kinetic molecular theory for an ideal gas, which describe the behavior and properties of gas particles.
2. Understand that according to the theory, gas particles are considered to have negligible volume compared to the container they occupy, meaning their size is very small relative to the space available.
3. Recognize that ideal gas particles do not exert intermolecular forces on each other; they neither attract nor repel one another, which allows them to move independently.
4. Note that the particles move in constant, random, straight-line motion and collisions between them are perfectly elastic, meaning no energy is lost during collisions.
5. Use these points to evaluate the given statements and identify the one that correctly reflects the assumptions of the kinetic molecular theory for an ideal gas.