Learning Path
Question & Answer1
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Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
In the gaseous state, water molecules move freely and rapidly, overcoming intermolecular forces, while in the solid state, they are tightly packed and vibrate in place.
B
Both states exhibit similar molecular motion due to the same intermolecular forces.
C
In the solid state, water molecules have more energy compared to the gaseous state, allowing for rapid movement.
D
Water molecules in both states have the same amount of kinetic energy, resulting in identical motion.
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
In water vapor the molecules are far apart and move almost independently, bouncing around with high kinetic energy because the intermolecular forces are very weak. In solid ice, the molecules are arranged in a rigid lattice and can only vibrate around fixed positions because strong hydrogen bonds hold them together. The difference in motion is therefore a result of the strength of the intermolecular forces: weak in the gas, strong in the solid. For example, a water molecule in the gas phase travels several centimeters in a millisecond, while an ice molecule only jiggles a few angstroms. Thus the gaseous state shows rapid, free movement, whereas the solid state shows limited, vibration‑only movement due to strong bonding.
Detailed Explanation
In the gas, water molecules have enough energy to break the hydrogen bonds that normally hold them together. Other options are incorrect because The idea that gas and solid have similar motion ignores the huge energy difference; It suggests solids have more energy than gases, which is not true.
Key Concepts
Molecular Motion
Intermolecular Forces
Topic
States of Matter
Difficulty
medium level question
Cognitive Level
understand
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