Question

List the physical characteristics of gases.

Short answer

Gases have unique properties, including: they are easy to compress, they occupy their entire container, have low densities, and are capable of mixing or diffusing into one another completely.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Basics

Gases have unique properties that distinguish them from solids and liquids. These include: being easy to compress, occupying their entire container, having low densities, and being capable of mixing or diffusing into one another completely.

Expand on Compression

Gases are easily compressible because there is a large amount of space between the individual molecules. This space allows the molecules to move closer together under pressure.

Occupying Entire Container

Gases occupy the entire volume of their container. This is because gas molecules are in constant, random motion and move about freely until they encounter the walls of their container.

Low Density

Gases have lower densities compared to solids and liquids. This is because the molecules in a gas are much further apart from each other.

Mixing and Diffusion

Gases mix completely and diffuse with other gases. This is in both the open air and inside a closed container, due to the fact that gas particles move freely. This change in movement leads to diffusing with other gas particles, eventually becoming evenly distributed.