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Molecular Motion in Gases

publish date: 2026/05/19 08:28:36.292576 UTC

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How do molecules in a gas move compared to molecules in a solid or liquid state under standard conditions?

They move at very high speeds in straight lines until they collide with other molecules or the container walls.

They remain locked in fixed positions, vibrating around a central point.

They flow tightly packed together, maintaining constant contact while sliding past one another.

They remain completely motionless unless an external electrical charge is applied.

Correct Answer

They move at very high speeds in straight lines until they collide with other molecules or the container walls.

Explanation

In the gaseous state, intermolecular forces are extremely weak, allowing molecules to move freely and rapidly in random, straight-line paths until they bounce off one another or the surfaces of their container.

Reference

Basic Physics: A Self-Teaching Guide

Quizzes you can take where this question appears

Molecules in gases