Question

The kinetic theory of matter states that:

• A. all matter is made of small particles that are in random motion and that have space between them
• B. all matter is made of small particles that are in random motion and that do not have space between them
• C. all matter is made of small particles that are not in random motion and that have space between them
• D. None of above

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

all matter is made of small particles that are in random motion and that have space between them

The kinetic molecular theory of matter states that:

1. The matter is made up of particles that are constantly moving.
2. All particles have energy, but the energy varies depending on the temperature the sample of matter is in. This, in turn, determines whether the substance exists in the solid, liquid, or gaseous state. Molecules in the solid phase have the least amount of energy, while gas particles have the greatest amount of energy.
3. The temperature of a substance is a measure of the average kinetic energy of the particles.
4. A change in phase may occur when the energy of the particles is changed.
5. There are spaces between particles of matter. The average amount of empty space between molecules gets progressively larger as a sample of matter moves from the solid to the liquid and gas phases.
6. There are attractive forces between atoms/molecules, and these become stronger as the particles move closer together. These attractive forces are called intermolecular forces.

Hence, the correct option is $\text{A}$