If a mixture of different gases is heated, it rises to the top of its container. Which statement best explains this result?

Question

A. Heated gases have higher kinetic energy and decreased density.
B. Heated gases have lower kinetic energy and lower density.
C. Heated gases have higher kinetic energy and higher density.
D. Heated gases have lower kinetic energy and higher density.

Answer 1

The correct statement that best explains why a mixture of different gases rises to the top of its container when heated is:

A. Heated gases have higher kinetic energy and decreased density.

As gases are heated, their molecules move faster, which increases their kinetic energy. This increase in kinetic energy causes the gas to expand, resulting in a decrease in density. Since less dense gases tend to rise above denser gases, the heated gas rises to the top of the container.