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Chapter 11: Problem 15

Why is it proper to think of the gas phase of matter as being more chaotic than either of the condensed phases?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The gas phase of matter is considered more chaotic than the condensed phases (liquid and solid) due to the random and rapid motion of particles, weak attractive forces between them, and their ability to expand and change volume according to their container's size. In contrast, particles in condensed phases are closer together, experience stronger intermolecular forces, and have a more limited range of motion, making them less chaotic in comparison.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the three phases of matter

Matter can exist in three main states: solid, liquid, and gas. In each state, particles behave differently, and their interactions with each other vary. The arrangement and movement of these particles are the key to understanding the difference in chaos between these phases.
02

Examining particle behavior in the solid phase

In a solid, particles are packed closely together and have a definite shape and volume. They are arranged in a fixed, regular pattern and vibrate around their fixed positions. The forces between these particles are strong, and it is relatively difficult for them to move.
03

Examining particle behavior in the liquid phase

In a liquid, particles are still relatively close together but can flow past each other, which is why liquids have a definite volume but can take the shape of their container. Compared to solids, the movement of particles in a liquid is more random, but they are still influenced by the attractive forces between them.
04

Examining particle behavior in the gas phase

In a gas, particles are far apart from each other, allowing them to move independently and chaotically. They are in constant, rapid, and random motion, often colliding with the walls of their container and with each other. The attractive forces between them are incredibly weak, and they can change their position and speed without many restrictions. Gases have no definite shape or volume and can expand indefinitely.
05

Comparing the level of chaos in the three phases

When comparing the three phases of matter, the gas phase is the most chaotic due to the following factors: 1. The random and rapid motion of particles. 2. The weak attractive forces between particles, allowing them to move freely without limitations. 3. The ability of gas particles to expand and change their volume according to their container's size. In contrast, the condensed phases (solid and liquid) are less chaotic due to the closer proximity of particles, stronger intermolecular forces, and a more limited range of motion. Therefore, it is proper to think of the gas phase of matter as being more chaotic than either of the condensed phases.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Suppose you want to carry out the chemical reaction: \(\mathrm{H}_{2}(g)+\mathrm{Cl}_{2}(g) \rightarrow 2 \mathrm{HCl}(g)\) and you have 1 mole of \(\mathrm{Cl}_{2}\) gas. (a) What volume in liters of \(\mathrm{H}_{2}\) gas would you need in order to have 1 mole of \(\mathrm{H}_{2}\), given that the \(\mathrm{H}_{2}\) pressure and temperature are \(1.00 \mathrm{~atm}\) and \(22.5^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) ? (b) What would the volume of the product be if it were collected at \(1.00 \mathrm{~atm}\) and \(22.5^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) ?

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Why does liquid rise up a straw when you suck on the liquid through the straw?

If \(48.3 \mathrm{~g}\) of an unknown gas occupies \(10.0 \mathrm{~L}\) at \(40^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) and \(3.10 \mathrm{~atm}\), what is the molar mass of the gas?
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