Particle model of matter Transitional Reasoning Download PDF

Questions

1. 1.

   A student fills one airtight syringe with air and an identical syringe with water, both to an initial volume of 50 mL. When the student seals the nozzle and presses the plunger with equal force on both syringes, the volume of air decreases to 25 mL, whereas the volume of water remains practically unchanged. Based on the particle model of matter, which statement best explains this difference in compressibility?

   • A) Gas particles shrink in individual size when compressed, whereas liquid particles maintain a rigid, unalterable size.
   • B) Gas particles are separated by vast empty spaces that can be reduced, whereas liquid particles are already packed closely together.
   • C) Gas particles exert no repulsive forces when forced together, whereas liquid particles form rigid bonds under applied pressure.
   • D) Gas particles lose all kinetic energy and stop moving under pressure, whereas liquid particles speed up to push the plunger back.