Problem

The molecules of a gas at room temperature move around violently at speeds of about 500 me...

The molecules of a gas at room temperature move around violently at speeds of about 500 meters per second. When stuck inside a balloon, these molecules are always colliding with the inner surface of the balloon. Each collision provides a little push outwards on the balloon. All the many collisions working together is what keeps the balloon inflated. To get a “feel” for what’s happening here, add about a tablespoon of tiny beads to a large balloon. (Pellets, beans, BB’s, grains of rice, etc., also work.) Inflate the balloon to its full size and tie it shut. Hold the balloon in the palms of both hands and shake rapidly. Can you feel the collisions? As you shake the balloon wildly, the flying beads represent the gaseous phase. How should you move the balloon so that the beads represent the liquid phase? The solid phase?

Step-by-Step Solution

Request Professional Solution

Request Solution!

We need at least 10 more requests to produce the solution.

0 / 10 have requested this problem solution

The more requests, the faster the answer.

Request! (Login Required)


All students who have requested the solution will be notified once they are available.
Add your Solution
Textbook Solutions and Answers Search