Chapter 14.1, Problem 1LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To determine why is a gas easy to compress.

Concept Introduction: A condition of a substance known as gas lacks both a set shape and a fixed volume. Compared to other states of matter, including solids and liquids, gases have a lower density.

Answer to Problem 1LC

Because of the huge intermolecular space that is reduced when force was applied to gases, which results in a reduction in volume, gases are easily compressed.

Explanation of Solution

This is due to the presence of interparticle gaps. In contrast to solids and liquids, whose particles are close together and cannot be compressed, gases have relatively vast interparticle spaces and are, therefore, compressible.