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Kinetic Molecular Theory

1.  Everything is composed of particles.
2.  In gases, particles are spread apart.  In liquids and solids, the particles are closer together.
3.  Gasa particles are in constant motion.  They are really moving fast.  They are traveling about at 1000 m/sec.  (Figure out how many miles per hour that will be.  You will find that it is over 3 times the speed of sound- Mach 3!)  Liquids and solids are also in motion, but they are not moving as fast.  In fact you might think of them as squirming around, vibrating or twisting. 
4.  There are much greater attractive forces between liquids and gases.
5.  Gas particles are constantly colliding with one another.  There are about 5X109collisions pear second.  When the gases collide, they collide elastically. 
6.  High temperatures imply faster motion of the particles.  Low temperatures mean slower motion. 

For a marvelous interactive applet that allows you to picture how molecules in motion relate to temperature, pressure and volume measurements of gases, go to http://learn.chem.vt.edu/chemistry/general/resources1035.html

 

 

 
D.C. Everest Senior High
6500 Alderson Street
Weston, WI 54476

Bill Heeren, Teacher
November 16, 2013

Phone (715) 359-6561
Extension 4204
Fax (715) 355-7220