According to the kinetic molecular theory, how do the molecules of a gas behave?

• A. They move in fixed paths without colliding with each other.
• B. They remain stationary and only vibrate in place.
• C. They are attracted strongly to each other and form a rigid structure.
• D. They move rapidly in random directions and frequently collide with each other and the walls of the container.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the main postulates of the kinetic molecular theory, which describes the behavior of gas molecules.
2. Understand that gas molecules are in constant, rapid, and random motion, moving in straight lines until they collide with either other molecules or the walls of their container.
3. Recognize that these collisions are perfectly elastic, meaning there is no net loss of kinetic energy during collisions.
4. Note that gas molecules are assumed to have negligible volume compared to the container and that there are no significant attractive or repulsive forces between them.
5. Conclude that the correct description of gas molecule behavior is that they move rapidly in random directions and frequently collide with each other and the walls of the container.