Chapter 5, Problem 53A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: At the same temperature, the density of a gaseous substance is greater or less than the density of a liquid or solid substance needs to be explained.

Concept Introduction: Density is amount of matter present in a substance in given volume. That is, it is the ratio of mass of a substance to volume:

  $\text{Density =}\frac{\text{mass}}{\text{volume}}$

Answer to Problem 53A

At same temperature, if mass of the solid, liquid and gas is same then density of gaseous substance is less than solid or liquid because the volume of gas phase is greater than the other two.

Explanation of Solution

Compared to liquid or solid substance, at same temperature, gaseous substance will occupy a much larger volume. Density is a function of mass per unit volume. A gaseous substance leads to a smaller density because it occupies greater volume. Density is defined as mass per unit volume. If volume of the substance is less and mass is more than the other substance thus, it has higher density.

Conclusion

At same temperature, volume of gas phase is higher than solid or liquid. So, density of a gaseous substance is less than solid or liquid.