Chapter 13, Problem 48A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The assumption for the volume of molecule of gas as compared to the volume of bulk of the gas molecules needs to be explained.

Concept Introduction: - This fact is supported by the postulates of kinetic theory of gases.

Answer to Problem 48A

The volume of the molecules of a gas sample is negligible when compared to the bulk of the gas sample.

Explanation of Solution

Kinetic molecular theory of gases explains the gaseous behavior based on experimental observations.

According to this theory-

1) A gas is made up of molecules. The molecules are very far to each other that attractions between the molecules are very less.

2) The volume occupied by the molecules of the gas is very much less than compared to the volume of the gas itself.

It is assumed that the volume of a bulk sample of gas is larger than the volume of the actual molecules in the gas. This helps to explain why gases are so compressible.

Conclusion

It is assumed that volume occupied by the molecules of the gas is very much less as compared to the volume of the gas itself.