Questions: Which scenario is most similar to the type of collision that gas particles have according to kinetic molecular theory? A. two mud balls sticking to each other B. a baseball hitting the ground and rolling to a stop C. two billiard balls colliding and bouncing off each other D. an ax splitting a board in two E. a snowball smashed against the ground

Solution Steps

The kinetic molecular theory describes the behavior of gas particles. According to this theory, gas particles are in constant, random motion and collide with each other and the walls of their container. These collisions are perfectly elastic, meaning that there is no loss of kinetic energy in the system.

Let's analyze each given scenario to determine which one best represents the type of collision described by the kinetic molecular theory:

• Option A: Two mud balls sticking to each other

  • This represents an inelastic collision where kinetic energy is not conserved because the mud balls stick together.

• Option B: A baseball hitting the ground and rolling to a stop

  • This scenario involves energy loss due to friction and is not an elastic collision.

• Option C: Two billiard balls colliding and bouncing off each other

  • This represents an elastic collision where kinetic energy is conserved, similar to the collisions described by the kinetic molecular theory.

• Option D: An ax splitting a board in two

  • This involves breaking a material and is not related to the type of collision described by the kinetic molecular theory.

• Option E: A snowball smashed against the ground

  • This is an inelastic collision where the snowball deforms and kinetic energy is not conserved.

Based on the analysis, the scenario that best represents the type of collision described by the kinetic molecular theory is the one where two billiard balls collide and bounce off each other.

Final Answer