Skip to content

#intermolecular forces

40 public questions tagged with this topic.

What is the primary reason a real gas deviates from the ideal gas equation?

**Pressure-temperature relation** at constant volume Gay-Lussac law P ∝ T, for V constant, P₁/T₁ = P₂/T₂, if T doubles from 300 K to 600 K P doubles, e.g., P₁=1 atm at 300 K P₂=2 atm at 600 K, no work done, ΔU = n C_v ΔT = Q. Real gases deviate from the ideal gas equation ( P V = μ R T ) due to intermolecular forces, which are negligible in ideal gases but significant in real gases, especially at high pressures or low temperatures. Using first law ΔU = Q - W, W = ∫ P dV, isobaric W = P ΔV, isothermal

Ref: NCERT > Physics Book > Thermodynamics > Isochoric Processes and Pressure-Temperature

Why do gases expand more than solids for the same temperature increase?

Gases have a much higher coefficient of volume expansion than solids due to weaker intermolecular forces, allowing greater volume changes with temperature. As per NCERT, applying relevant law/formula with correct units and sign convention leads to Gases have a higher expansion coefficient. This satisfies dimensional consistency and physical conditions given, so option D is scientifically correct.

Ref: NCBI Bookshelf, Ideal Gas Law: P1V1/T1 = P2V2/T2.

Why does a liquid’s surface tension decrease with increasing temperature?

Increasing temperature weakens cohesive forces between liquid molecules by increasing their kinetic energy, reducing the contractile force at the surface, thus lowering surface tension, as noted in the chapter. As per NCERT, applying relevant law/formula with correct units and sign convention leads to Cohesive forces weaken. This satisfies dimensional consistency and physical conditions given, so option C is scientifically correct.

Ref: NCERT Class 11 Physics, Thermal Properties and Gravitation.

What causes a liquid to form a concave meniscus in a glass tube?

A concave meniscus forms when adhesive forces between the liquid (e.g., water) and glass exceed cohesive forces within the liquid, pulling the edges upward and creating a curved surface. As per NCERT, applying relevant law/formula with correct units and sign convention leads to Strong adhesive forces. This satisfies dimensional consistency and physical conditions given, so option C is scientifically correct.

Ref: NCERT Class 11 Physics, Thermal Properties and Gravitation.