Which of the following best describes the relationship of molecules in a liquid with those in a gas at the same temperature?
A)Molecules in the liquid are much closer together than those in the gas.
B)Molecules in the liquid have less kinetic energy than those in the gas.
C)Molecules in the liquid are moving faster than those in the gas on the average.
D)Both a and b are correct.
E)All of the above are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Molecules in a liquid are indeed much closer together than those in a gas, reflecting the higher density and cohesive forces present in liquids. Additionally, while the average kinetic energy of molecules in a liquid and a gas at the same temperature is the same (since temperature is a measure of average kinetic energy), the individual molecules in a gas can move more freely and thus may have higher velocities due to less frequent collisions and less energy loss upon collision compared to those in a liquid. However, the statement in B is misleading as it suggests that molecules in a liquid have less kinetic energy overall, which contradicts the principle that average kinetic energy (related to temperature) is the same for both states at equal temperatures. The correct interpretation is that the distribution of kinetic energies in a liquid is such that while some molecules may move slower due to interactions with other molecules, the average kinetic energy is comparable to that of a gas at the same temperature.

Which of the Following Best Describes the Relationship of Molecules