5 main characteristics of gases
Answers
1.Gases have neither definite shape nor definite volume. They expand to the size of their container.
2.Gases are fluid, and flow easily.
3.Gases have low density, unless compressed. ...
4.Gases diffuse (mix and spread out) and effuse (travel through small holes).
1. Compressibility
Particles of gas have huge intermolecular spaces in the midst of them. By the exertion of pressure, much of this space can be diminished and the particles are brought closer. Thus, the volume of gas can be hugely reduced. This is termed as compressing the gas .
2. Expansibility
When pressure is exerted on gas, it contracts. On the other hand, when pressure is freed, the gas expands.
3. Diffusibility
The molecules of the gas are in perpetual motion, at a very high velocity. There is a huge amount of intermolecular space amid the molecules.
4. Low Density
Since gases have large intermolecular spaces, they have very large volumes when compared to their mass. Therefore, they have less densities.
5. Exertion of Pressure
Solids exert pressure only in the downward direction. Liquids apply pressure downward as well as to the sides. But gases apply pressure in all directions (a good sample is a balloon). This pressure is because of the bombardment of the particles against the walls of the vessel.