SAT II Chemistry Exam Prep

Category - General Chemistry

According to the kinetic molecular theory, which of the following happens to the molecules of a gas when the gas is compressed?
  1. The average distance between the molecules decreases.
  2. The electrostatic repulsion between molecules decreases.
  3. The atomic radii of the atoms in the molecules decrease.
  4. The lengths of the bonds within the molecules decrease.
Explanation
Correct Response: A. As a gas is compressed, the pressure is increased and the molecules move closer together. This happens because the same number of molecules is forced to occupy a space of decreased volume. B is incorrect because electrostatic repulsion between molecules will increase as the distance between the molecules is decreased. The strength of intermolecular interactions decreases with the distance between molecules. C is incorrect because the size of the atoms in the molecules is not affected by the distance between the molecules. D is incorrect because the lengths of the bonds within the molecules are a function of the type of bond and the specific elements involved rather than the pressure of the gas in its container (i.e., the degree of compression).
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