Gaseous State — Predicted 2026

AI-Predicted Question Angles for UPSC 2026

Based on trend analysis, current affairs, and recurring themes in Gaseous State.

Application of Van der Waals Equation and Compressibility Factor

high

While direct calculations using the Van der Waals equation can be lengthy for NEET, conceptual questions about its terms ('a' and 'b') and their physical significance are highly probable. Questions interpreting compressibility factor (Z) graphs, identifying regions where attractive or repulsive forces dominate, and relating Z to ideal/real gas behavior are also very likely. This tests a deeper understanding of real gas deviations beyond just stating the conditions.

Combined Gas Law and Stoichiometry

medium

NEET often combines concepts. A question might involve a reaction producing a gas, and then ask for its volume, pressure, or temperature using the combined gas law, or vice-versa. This requires students to first calculate moles using stoichiometry and then apply gas laws. This tests both chemical reactions and physical chemistry principles simultaneously, making it a good discriminator.

Kinetic Molecular Theory and Molecular Speeds

high

Conceptual questions on KMT postulates are fundamental. Additionally, numerical problems involving the calculation or comparison of different molecular speeds (RMS, average, most probable) are common. Understanding how these speeds change with temperature and molar mass, and their relative order ($u_{mp} < u_{avg} < u_{rms}$), is a frequently tested area. Questions might also involve relating kinetic energy to temperature.