In the van der Waals equation of state [P + an^2/V^2] [V - nb] = nR*T, what physical correction does the constant 'a' represent?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Intermolecular attractive forces reducing pressure exerted on vessel walls
- Step 1: In real gases, attractive forces pull molecules back from container walls, reducing collision momentum and measured pressure. Step 2. The term a(n/V)^2 compensates for these intermolecular attractions. Step 3. The constant b corrects for the finite excluded volume of gas molecules. Answer: Intermolecular attractive forces reducing pressure exerted on vessel walls. Why not the others:* Molecular volume is accounted for by constant b.
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