Chapter 4: Problem 5

Why can gases be compressed much more readily than solids or liquids?

Short Answer

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Answer: Gases are more compressible than solids and liquids because they have greater empty space between their particles and weaker intermolecular forces acting among them. This allows their particles to be pushed closer together under pressure, resulting in a reduction of volume. In contrast, particles in solids and liquids are already close together with stronger intermolecular forces, making it difficult for external pressure to reduce their volume.

Step by step solution

Molecular Structure and Motion

Gases, liquids, and solids differ primarily in the arrangement of their particles (atoms or molecules) and the strength of the interactions between them. In gases, particles are far apart and in a state of continuous motion, moving independently and interacting only occasionally through collisions. Liquids have particles that are closer together, still in continuous motion, but the interactions between particles are stronger than in gases. In solids, particles are closely packed, vibrating in fixed positions, with strong bonding forces holding them together.

Compressibility

Compressibility refers to the ease with which a substance can be compressed or reduced in volume under the application of pressure. The primary factor affecting compressibility is the strength of forces between the particles and how closely the particles are situated.

Compression of Gases

Gases are highly compressible due to the following reasons: 1. The large distances between particles: There is much empty space between the gas particles, and when pressure is applied, these particles can be pushed closer together, resulting in a reduction of volume. 2. Weak intermolecular forces: The interactions between gas particles are relatively weak (Van der Waals forces) and can be easily overcome when pressure is applied.

Limited Compression of Liquids and Solids

Liquids and solids have more limited compressibility compared to gases due to the following reasons: 1. Small distances between particles: The particles in liquids and solids are already close together, and there is little room for further compression. 2. Strong intermolecular forces: The interactions between particles in liquids and solids are significantly stronger (hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds, and covalent bonds), making it difficult for external pressure to reduce their volume. In conclusion, gases can be compressed much more readily than solids and liquids because of the greater empty space between their particles and the weaker intermolecular forces acting among them.

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Why can gases be compressed much more readily than solids or liquids?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Molecular Structure and Motion

Compressibility

Compression of Gases

Limited Compression of Liquids and Solids

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