Which of the following is NOT true about gases?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the properties of gases and the validity of specific statements regarding their behavior. Participants analyze statements about gas volume, pressure, expansion, and density, considering both theoretical and practical implications.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asserts that the first statement about gas volume being directly proportional to molecular weight is incorrect.
  • Another participant questions the validity of the fourth statement, suggesting that gases cannot expand without limit if contained, arguing that expansion is restricted by the container.
  • A subsequent reply acknowledges that in a closed vessel, the reasoning about limited expansion is correct, but notes that gases can expand without limit in the absence of a container.
  • Further contributions emphasize the ambiguity in the original statements, with participants noting that the lack of context regarding containment affects the interpretation of the statements.
  • One participant highlights the dual nature of physics, distinguishing between real-world behavior and the interpretation of exam questions.
  • A light-hearted comment suggests that chemistry and physics are distinct, implying that exam questions should be clear and unambiguous.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the interpretation of the fourth statement regarding gas expansion, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects limitations in the assumptions made about containment and the context of the statements, which are not explicitly defined in the original question.

ace123
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Which of the following is NOT true about
gases?
1. The volume a gas occupies is directly
proportional to its molecular weight.
2. The gas is at STP if it is at 273 K and 1
atm.
3. Gases exert pressure on their surround-
ings.
4. Gases can expand without limit.
5. The density of a gas can be increased by applying increased pressure.

Now I know that 1 is wrong. But I was thinking shouldn't 4 technically be wrong because the gases only expand to fill the container they are in. In other words a gas in bottle can't expand without limit. Is this reasoning correct in any way?
 
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ace123 said:
But I was thinking shouldn't 4 technically be wrong because the gases only expand to fill the container they are in. In other words a gas in bottle can't expand without limit. Is this reasoning correct in any way?
If the system is a closed vessel you are correct. If there is no container, they can expand without limit.
 
Since it didn't state anything about that. So therefore I have an argument?
 
It didn't say there was a container!
 
It didn't say that it wasn't in a container. SO...?
 
Unfortunately there are two sides to physics.
1, Understanding the behaviour of the real world - and what maths to apply where
2, Understanding what exam questions mean.
 
Lol. Good thing chem isn't physics. Therefore exam questions shouldn't be ambiguous.
 

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