Question

the particles in water have less mobility than the particles in oxygen. which statement best explains this observation?

• water is always colder than oxygen.
• water has a lower density than oxygen.
• water particles have a greater kinetic energy.
• water particles have strong intermolecular forces.

Explanation:

• Option 1: Temperature isn't always lower for water than oxygen (e.g., hot water vs cold oxygen), so this is incorrect.
• Option 2: Water (liquid) has higher density than oxygen (gas), so this is wrong.
• Option 3: Higher kinetic energy means more mobility, but water particles have less mobility, so this is incorrect.
• Option 4: Stronger intermolecular forces in water (liquid) restrict particle movement more than in oxygen (gas), explaining less mobility.

Answer:

D. Water particles have strong intermolecular forces.