How does temperature affect the solubility of gases in water?

The correct understanding of how temperature affects the solubility of gases in water is that higher temperatures decrease gas solubility. This phenomenon occurs because as the temperature of water increases, the kinetic energy of the water molecules also increases. As a result, gas molecules are more likely to escape from the liquid phase into the gas phase. In simpler terms, warm water holds less dissolved gas compared to cold water because the increased thermal motion allows gas molecules to break free more easily. This principle is particularly relevant in various environmental and biological contexts, such as the survival of aquatic life, where warmer waters can lead to lower levels of dissolved oxygen, which is essential for fish and other aquatic organisms.