What characterizes the motion of gas particles?

The motion of gas particles is characterized by their random motion. In gases, particles move freely and independently of one another, colliding with each other and the walls of their container. This random motion occurs because gas particles have high kinetic energy, allowing them to overcome intermolecular forces, which means they are not fixed in position, as seen in solids.

Gas particles travel in straight lines until their movement is altered due to collisions. During these interactions, they can change direction and speed, contributing to the chaotic nature of their overall motion. The randomness of gas particles is a fundamental aspect that explains various gas properties, such as pressure and temperature. Noteworthy, the kinetic molecular theory outlines how this random motion leads to behaviors that can be predicted under different conditions.

Understanding this characteristic helps explain many phenomena in physics and chemistry, including gas laws and the behavior of gases under different temperatures and pressures.