What are the basic postulates of kinetic molecular theory?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the fundamental principles that underpin the kinetic molecular theory, which explains the behavior of gases in terms of particles in motion. The key concepts include the assumptions about the size, motion, and energy of gas molecules.
Answer
Small, far-apart molecules; constant random motion; elastic collisions; kinetic energy proportional to temperature.
The basic postulates of kinetic molecular theory are: 1) Molecules in a gas are small and far apart. 2) Gas molecules are in constant random motion. 3) Molecules collide with each other and the container walls without losing kinetic energy (perfectly elastic collisions). 4) The average kinetic energy is proportional to the gas's temperature.
Answer for screen readers
The basic postulates of kinetic molecular theory are: 1) Molecules in a gas are small and far apart. 2) Gas molecules are in constant random motion. 3) Molecules collide with each other and the container walls without losing kinetic energy (perfectly elastic collisions). 4) The average kinetic energy is proportional to the gas's temperature.
More Information
The kinetic molecular theory helps explain the macroscopic properties of gases, such as pressure, temperature, and volume, in terms of microscopic behaviors.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming energy is lost during collisions. Remember, these collisions are perfectly elastic.
