Question

Which of the following gases is most likely to exhibit ideal gas behavior?

• A. \( \text{H}_2 \)
• B. \( \text{CO}_2 \)
• C. \( \text{H}_2\text{O} \)
• D. \( \text{NH}_3 \)

Hint:

The ideal gas law assumes that gases consist of non-interacting molecules. Gases with weak intermolecular forces and low molecular weight exhibit behavior closest to ideal gas behavior.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Ideal gas behavior is most closely observed in gases that have low molecular weight and weak intermolecular forces. - \( \text{H}_2 \) is a small, non-polar molecule, and it tends to behave ideally at high temperatures and low pressures. - \( \text{CO}_2 \) has stronger intermolecular forces (due to its polarity), so it deviates more from ideal behavior. - \( \text{H}_2\text{O} \) is a polar molecule and forms hydrogen bonds, which cause it to deviate significantly from ideal gas behavior. - \( \text{NH}_3 \) also has hydrogen bonding and thus does not behave ideally. Therefore, \( \text{H}_2 \) is most likely to exhibit ideal gas behavior.