Understanding Barometric Pressure and Kinetic Molecular Theory
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Understanding Barometric Pressure
Barometric pressure is the pressure exerted by the atmosphere due to its weight on the surfaces of bodies in contact with it. It is exerted equally in all directions and acts perpendicular to the surface of bodies. Torricelli conducted an experiment in the seventeenth century to prove the existence of atmospheric pressure. 1 atm = 760 mmHg.
Fundamental Gas Laws
- Constant Temperature (Boyle's Law): P₁V₁ = P₂V₂
- Constant Pressure (Charles's Law): V₁/T₁ = V₂/T₂
- Constant Volume (Gay-Lussac's Law): P₁/T₁ = P₂/T₂
Kinetic Molecular Theory of Gases
- Gases are formed by a large number of very small particles, especially when compared with the distance between them.
- Between particles, there is nothing but empty space.
- These particles move continuously and in a disorderly way.
- Particles are in constant motion, colliding with each other and against the walls of the container.
- The speed of gas particles increases with rising temperature and decreases as it falls.
Kinetic Theory of Matter
The kinetic theory of matter was developed to explain the nature of matter and its behavior. While initially applied to gases, it can be applied to other states of matter with minor corrections. It is based on three key ideas:
- Matter consists of particles too small to be seen.
- Particles are in constant motion.
- There is absolutely nothing between the particles.
States of Matter
- Solids: Particles are very near each other, though gaps exist. Forces of attraction are strong, keeping particles in fixed positions (usually within a crystal lattice), allowing only vibrations around these positions.
- Liquids: Particles are close together. Attraction forces are greater than repulsive forces, keeping particles together while allowing them to scroll past each other, conforming to the shape of the containing vessel.
- Gases: Particles are very far apart. Attraction forces are small in comparison with repulsive forces. Particles collide with each other and with the container walls continuously.