HESI A2 Chemistry Practice Test

The kinetic molecular theory provides a framework for understanding the behavior of gases based on the concept that matter is made up of tiny particles that are in constant motion. According to this theory, gas particles are relatively far apart and move freely, colliding with one another and the walls of their container. This motion is influenced by temperature, which correlates directly to the kinetic energy of the particles—the higher the temperature, the faster the particles move.

This theory also explains important gas laws, such as Boyle's and Charles' laws, which describe how gases behave under different conditions of pressure and volume. By focusing on the velocity and interactions of gas particles, the kinetic molecular theory successfully accounts for behaviors such as diffusion, effusion, and changes in pressure with volume changes.

Options focusing on the interactions between light and matter, the rates of chemical reactions at equilibrium, or the structure of solids and liquids pertain to different branches of physical chemistry and do not relate to the specific explanations provided by the kinetic molecular theory concerning gases and their motion.