The kinetic theory

• What is the kinetic theory of gases?

  The kinetic theory is the idea that a gas is made from tiny particles that are in constant, random motion.
• How do gas particles move according to the kinetic theory?

  Gas particles are assumed to be widely spread and move in straight lines in between collisions.
• What does it mean that all collisions in a gas are elastic?


  It means that no kinetic energy is 'lost' during collisions between gas particles.
• How can a gas be visualized according to the kinetic theory?


  • A gas can be pictured as a collection of widely spaced molecules.
  • These molecules are in continuous, chaotic motion.
• What happens when gas molecules collide with the walls of their container?

  They exert a force on the walls, contributing to the pressure of the gas.
• How is pressure defined in the context of gases?

  Pressure is defined as the average force per unit area exerted by gas particles colliding with the walls of their container.
• What creates pressure in gases?

  Pressure is created by gas particles colliding with the inside surface of the container.
• How does the frequency of collisions affect the pressure of a gas?

  Millions of collisions on each square centimetre every second produce outward 'pressure'.