What is the effect of temperature on gas solubility in water?

The correct answer highlights a well-known principle in physical chemistry regarding the behavior of gases in liquids. As temperature increases, the kinetic energy of the gas molecules also increases. This enhanced kinetic energy causes the gas molecules to move more vigorously, making it more likely for them to escape from the liquid phase into the gas phase. As a result, the solubility of gases in water decreases at higher temperatures. This phenomenon can be observed in practical situations, such as why carbonated beverages lose their fizziness when warmed; the carbon dioxide gas escapes more readily from the liquid as the temperature increases.

In contrast, gas solubility typically increases as temperature decreases, which aligns with the understanding that colder liquids can hold onto gas molecules more effectively. The explanation behind the other options fundamentally misunderstands this relationship between temperature and gas solubility. Thus, option D accurately reflects the negative correlation between temperature and the solubility of gases in water.