The mean free path of a gas molecule is the distance

Options

A. between the two opposite walls of the container
B. which the molecule travel in one second
C. through which a molecule moves between two consecutive collisions
D. Which the molecule travel in one second

Answer

To solve the question regarding the mean free path of a gas molecule, we can break down the explanation into clear steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Definition of Mean Free Path**:
- The mean free path is defined as the average distance traveled by a gas molecule between successive collisions with other molecules.

2. **Understanding Molecular Motion**:
- Gas molecules are in constant motion and move in straight lines until they collide with another molecule. This movement continues until a collision occurs.

3. **Collisions**:
- As gas molecules collide with one another, they change direction. The distance traveled in a straight line between two such collisions is referred to as a "free path."

4. **Average Calculation**:
- Since a gas molecule will experience numerous collisions, the mean free path is calculated as the average of all the free paths (distances traveled) between these collisions.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the mean free path can be summarized as the distance that a molecule moves in a straight line before it collides with another molecule.

### Final Answer:
The mean free path of a gas molecule is the distance it travels between two consecutive collisions.

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