Why can't the kinetic molecular theory be fully applied to liquids and solids?

• A. Because liquids and solids do not contain any particles that move.
• B. Because liquids and solids have no definite volume or shape.
• C. Because the temperature of liquids and solids does not affect particle motion.
• D. Because particles in liquids and solids are closely packed and experience significant intermolecular forces, limiting their freedom of movement.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the kinetic molecular theory (KMT) describes the behavior of particles in gases, assuming particles are in constant, random motion with negligible intermolecular forces.
2. Understand that in gases, particles are far apart and move freely, which aligns well with KMT assumptions.
3. Recognize that in liquids and solids, particles are much closer together and experience strong intermolecular forces that restrict their movement.
4. Note that because of these forces, particles in liquids and solids cannot move as freely or independently as gas particles, which violates key assumptions of KMT.
5. Conclude that the kinetic molecular theory cannot be fully applied to liquids and solids because their particles' restricted motion and significant intermolecular forces differ fundamentally from the idealized gas behavior described by KMT.