Question

Which two conditions can limit the usefulness of the kinetic-molecular theory in describing gas behavior?

a) High pressure and low temperatures
b) High pressure and medium temperatures
c) Low pressure and low temperatures
d) Low pressure and medium temperatures

Answer 1

The kinetic-molecular theory can be limited by high pressure and low temperatures.

Step-by-step explanation:

The usefulness of the kinetic-molecular theory in describing gas behavior can be limited by two conditions: high pressure and low temperatures. When a gas is under high pressure, the molecules are forced closer together, which diminishes the empty space between them. This contradicts the assumption of the kinetic-molecular theory that the volume of the gas particles themselves is negligible. At low temperatures, the decrease in kinetic energy of the particles causes them to slow down, making the attractive forces between them more prominent. This also deviates from the assumptions of the kinetic-molecular theory.