The molecules of a substance are moving rapidly in a container. The molecules do not interact with each other. If the container is opened, the molecules will escape from the container. In what phase of matter are the molecules in the container?
Responses
A plasmaplasma
B gasgas
C liquidliquid
D solid
B - gas
The molecules in the container are in the gas phase.
To understand why, let's break down the characteristics given in the question. Firstly, it is mentioned that the molecules in the container are moving rapidly. This indicates that the molecules have a high amount of kinetic energy, which is typically associated with the gaseous state. In the gas phase, molecules have enough energy to move freely and quickly.
Secondly, it is stated that the molecules do not interact with each other. In a gas, molecules are far apart and have weak intermolecular forces, causing minimal interaction between them. This is in contrast to liquids and solids, where intermolecular forces are stronger, and particles are closely packed together.
Lastly, when the container is opened, the molecules escape. This behavior is characteristic of gases since they have high molecular mobility and can easily disperse into an open space.
Therefore, based on the given information, we can conclude that the molecules in the container are in the gas phase (Option B - gas).