Answer: Intermolecular attraction and finite molecular volume.
- A Systematic errors in the absolute temperature scale used for the gas
- B Intermolecular attraction and finite molecular volume
- C Slight variation in the value of Avogadro's number with pressure
- D Gravitational effects acting on individual gas particles
Correct answer: B. Intermolecular attraction and finite molecular volume
Explanation: Van der Waals corrected the ideal gas equation for intermolecular attraction (constant a) and finite molecular volume (constant b).
Boyle's law: at constant temperature the pressure of a fixed mass of gas is inversely proportional to its volume (P ∝ 1/V), so the P–V plot is a hyperbola — halving the volume doubles the pressure. Image: Reginaprice2013, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Concept context
Discover why gases expand to fill any container while liquids flow and solids hold their shape. Master the gas laws, the ideal gas equation, and the reasons real gases deviate from ideal behavior.