C.IM.CE.2

The kinetic-molecular theory can be used to explain the macroscopic properties of gases (pressure, temperature and volume) through the motion and interactions of its particles. When one of the three properties is kept constant, the relationship between the other two properties can be quantified, described and explained using the kinetic-molecular theory. Real-world phenomena (e.g., why tire pressure increases in hot weather, why a hot air balloon rises) can be explained using this theory. Problems also can be solved involving the changes in temperature, pressure and volume of a gas. When solving gas problems, the Kelvin temperature scale must be used since only in this scale is the temperature directly proportional to the average kinetic energy. The Kelvin temperature is based on a scale that has its minimum temperature at absolute zero, a temperature at which all motion theoretically stops. Since equal volumes of gases at the same temperature and pressure contain an equal number of particles (Avogadro’s law), problems can be solved for an unchanging gaseous system using the ideal gas law (PV = nRT) where R is the ideal gas constant (e.g., represented in multiple formats, 8.31 Joules / (mole K)). The specific names of the gas laws are not addressed in this course. Deviations from ideal gaseous behavior are reserved for more advanced study. Explore the relationships between the volume, temperature and pressure in the laboratory or through computer simulations or virtual experiments.