Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Kinetic theory of gases

Kinetic theory of gases — practice question

A cube-shaped box of volume $V$ holds $N$ molecules of an ideal gas. Each molecule has mass $m$.
(a)[4]

From the kinetic theory of ideal gases, it can be shown that, if every molecule travels with speed $v$ at right angles to one face of the box, the pressure $p$ on that face is given by $pV = Nmv^2$ (equation 1). This result then leads to $p = \frac{1}{3}\rho \langle c^2 \rangle$ (equation 2) for the pressure $p$ of an ideal gas, where $\rho$ is the gas density and $\langle c^2 \rangle$ is the mean-square speed of the molecules. Explain how each of the following parts of equation 2 is obtained from equation 1: $\rho$, $\frac{1}{3}$, $\langle c^2 \rangle$.

(b)[4]

An ideal gas has the volume, pressure and temperature shown in Fig. 2.1. The gas has a mass of $20.7\,\text{g}$. Calculate the mass of one molecule of the gas.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Applying $p = \dfrac{Nm\langle c^2 \rangle}{3V}$ or a valid equivalent

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI