Question 22

It takes the shape of a container.

Gases are characterized by their ability to fill the entire volume of a container they occupy, adapting their shape to fit. This property is a fundamental aspect of gases, distinguishing them from liquids and solids.

A) It clings to a surface.

This statement is incorrect as it applies more to liquids, which tend to adhere to surfaces due to intermolecular forces. Gases do not cling to surfaces in the same manner; instead, they spread out to fill available space.

B) It takes the shape of a container.

This option is correct because gases have no fixed shape and will expand to fill the shape of their container. This property is essential in understanding the behavior of gases in various environments.

C) It has a fixed volume.

This statement is incorrect as gases do not have a fixed volume; instead, they occupy the volume of their container. In contrast, solids have a definite shape and volume, and liquids have a definite volume but no fixed shape.

D) It can be poured.

While gases can flow and be transferred from one place to another, the concept of "pouring" is more commonly associated with liquids. Gases can disperse, but they do not pour in the traditional sense as liquids do.

Conclusion

The correct answer, that a gas takes the shape of a container, is a defining characteristic of gases that highlights their fluidity and adaptability. Other options fail to accurately describe the properties of gases, as they either misattribute behaviors typical of liquids or incorrectly state that gases have fixed attributes. Understanding these properties is essential for comprehending the behavior of gases in different physical contexts.