Kinetic Molecular Theory Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Kinetic Molecular Theory?

The Kinetic Molecular Theory is a fundamental concept in physical science and was developed to explain the behavior of gases. It states that all matter is made of tiny particles that are constantly moving, and at any given moment the particles are distributed randomly throughout a container. The theory also explains that the temperature of a gas is directly proportional to its average kinetic energy; as temperature increases, so does the average speed of the molecules. The Kinetic Molecular Theory has several assumptions that underlie it. First, it assumes that all molecules have a finite volume but no shape or definite boundaries and occupy space. Second, it assumes that molecules move in straight lines at constant speeds until they collide with another molecule or wall of their container. Third, it assumes that during collisions between molecules there is no net loss or gain in energy; rather, all energy exchanged results from changes in direction and speed due to elastic collisions between molecules. Fourth, it assumes that the total number of collisions per unit time remains constant regardless of temperature or pressure changes within a system. Finally, it assumes that all forces between colliding molecules are short-range attractions with only two body interactions existing at any one time; this means there is no long-range force such as gravity or magnetism acting on them. The Kinetic Molecular Theory provides us with insight into many gas laws such as Boyle’s law (which states P∙V = k) and Avogadro’s law (which states V/n = k). The theory also helps us understand why gases expand when heatedthe higher temperature causes more frequent collisions between atoms which leads to an increase in pressure against their container walls resulting in expansion. Furthermore, we can use this theory to predict how different variables like temperature and pressure will affect the properties of gases such as density or viscosity over time. In conclusion, the Kinetic Molecular Theory provides us with an understanding about how gases behave under different conditions by providing an explanation for their motion through space based on molecular interactions and randomness instead of long-range forces like gravity or magnetism. By understanding this theory we can make better predictions about how changing variables like temperature will affect gas properties over time which ultimately allows us to better understand our world around us.