Question

question 24 of 30 which best describes the motion of helium atoms in gaseous helium?
a. the helium atoms move slowly only after a collision.

b. the helium atoms are fixed in one place.

c. the helium atoms can slide past one another.

d. the helium atoms move quickly in all directions.

Explanation:

To determine the motion of helium atoms in gaseous helium, we analyze the properties of gases:

• In a gas, particles (atoms/molecules) have high kinetic energy, move freely and quickly in random directions, and are far apart with weak intermolecular forces.
• Option A is incorrect because gas particles move quickly even without collisions (collisions just change direction/speed temporarily).
• Option B is incorrect as fixed particles describe solids, not gases.
• Option C describes liquid behavior (particles can slide past each other), not gas.
• Option D matches gas particle motion: helium atoms (in gas) move quickly in all directions due to high kinetic energy and random motion.

Answer:

D. The helium atoms move quickly in all directions.