What is the effect of increased pressure on gas?

Increased pressure on a gas typically results in the gas contracting, which aligns with the principles of gas laws. When pressure on a gas increases, the molecules are forced closer together due to the constraints imposed by the increased external pressure. According to Boyle's Law, for a given amount of gas at a constant temperature, the volume of the gas is inversely proportional to its pressure. This means that as the pressure rises, the volume of the gas decreases, causing it to contract.

This understanding is fundamental in various applications, including thermodynamics and engineering, where controlling gas behavior under pressure is crucial for systems such as engines, refrigeration, and chemical reactions. In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the behavior of gases under increased pressure.