According to the kinetic molecular theory, how do gases compare with liquids and solids in terms of the average distance between their molecules?

• A. Gases have much greater average distances between their molecules than liquids and solids.
• B. Gases have about the same average distance between their molecules as liquids.
• C. Gases have smaller average distances between their molecules than solids.
• D. Gases have slightly greater average distances between their molecules than solids, but less than liquids.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the basic assumptions of the kinetic molecular theory, which describes the behavior of particles in different states of matter (solids, liquids, and gases).
2. Understand that in solids, particles are closely packed in a fixed, orderly arrangement, so the average distance between molecules is very small.
3. Recognize that in liquids, particles are still close but not in a fixed position, allowing them to move past each other; thus, the average distance between molecules is slightly larger than in solids.
4. Note that in gases, particles move freely and are widely spaced apart, meaning the average distance between molecules is much greater compared to solids and liquids.
5. Conclude that gases have much greater average distances between their molecules than liquids and solids, which aligns with the kinetic molecular theory.