Final answer:
The statement consistent with the kinetic-molecular theory is that the volume of a vessel containing a gas consists mainly of empty space.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct statement that is consistent with the kinetic-molecular theory is (c) The volume of a vessel containing a gas consists mainly of empty space. According to the kinetic-molecular theory, gas molecules are in constant random motion and are separated by large distances. The gas molecules themselves occupy a very small fraction of the total volume of the gas.
For example, if you imagine a gas-filled balloon, the gas molecules are spread out throughout the balloon, with a lot of empty space between them. This is why gases can be compressed easily, as the gas molecules can be pushed closer together.
The other statements are incorrect according to the kinetic-molecular theory. Gas molecules have very weak attractive forces between them (option a is incorrect), and their motion is random and not directional (option b is incorrect). Additionally, the average kinetic energy of gas molecules is directly proportional to the absolute temperature, not inversely proportional (option d is incorrect).