According to the kinetic molecular theory, why is it possible to compress a gas?

• A. Because gas particles are larger than the volume of the container.
• B. Because gas particles have strong attractive forces that hold them together.
• C. Because gas particles are far apart and there is a lot of empty space between them.
• D. Because gas particles are tightly packed and cannot move freely.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the kinetic molecular theory, which describes the behavior of gas particles in terms of their motion and interactions.
2. Understand that gas particles are considered to be very small compared to the distances between them, meaning they occupy a negligible volume relative to the container.
3. Recognize that because gas particles are far apart, there is a significant amount of empty space between them.
4. This empty space allows gas particles to be pushed closer together when pressure is applied, making compression possible.
5. Therefore, the key reason gases can be compressed is due to the large amount of empty space between particles, not because of particle size or strong attractive forces.