Question detail

Why does a gas get hotter when it is compressed quickly?

Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.

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At a glance

MCQ

Type

practice

Style

Topic

Particle model and pressure

Question

A. The particles lose energy
B. The particles gain energy from the surroundings
C. The work done on the gas increases its internal energy
D. The gas expands

Answer

The correct answer is The work done on the gas increases its internal energy.

Explanation

Graph lens: Read the trend, flat section, gradient, or axis labels before explaining the physical meaning. This question asks: Why does a gas get hotter when it is compressed quickly. The correct response is The work done on the gas increases its internal energy, because gas pressure comes from particle collisions with container walls. In Increasing the pressure of a gas (physics only) (HT only), the marking point should connect directly to (Physics only) (HT only) Explain that compressing a gas can increase its internal energy. If the question includes values, the working must keep the appropriate unit and operation; if it is an explanation, it must name the relevant particle behaviour or energy change. This item belongs to Particle model and pressure, so avoid answers that switch to a different quantity, confuse heat with temperature, or describe gas pressure without collisions when collisions are the reason. Checkpoint 591 is distinct because it uses this exact question context and the graph lens rather than a generic particle-model sentence.

Common mistake

Confusing Internal Energy with Temperature

Students often confuse the concepts of internal energy and temperature, thinking that increasing internal energy directly means an increase in temperature.

To fix this, remember that while increasing internal energy can lead to a temperature increase, it depends on the specific heat capacity of the gas and the amount of work done on it. Focus on understanding the relationship between internal energy, temperature, and the physical processes involved.

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