Notes by M.

Armoogum

Chapter: Kinetic theory of matter

According to this theory, matter consists of microscopic particles known as atoms and
molecules(combination of atoms). These particles are spheres which are constantly in motion.

The kinetic theory can be used to explain the properties of the different phases of matter.

(i) The solid phase

In this phase, the particles are closely packed together with very strong forces present between
them. These particles are in fixed positions and can only vibrate about these fixed positions.
There in an orderly arrangement of particles (lattice structure)

Solids have fixed volumes and fixed shapes.

Fixed volume: The distance of separation of the particles is fixed due to the very strong forces
present between them.

Fixed shape: The particles are in fixed positions due to the very strong forces present between
them.

(ii) The liquid phase

In this phase, the particles are slightly further apart and the particles are no longer in fixed
positions. They are able to move past each other. The forces present are still strong but not as
strong as in the solid phase. The particles are disorderly arranged (no lattice structure)

Liquids have fixed volumes but no fixed shapes

Notes by M.Armoogum
Notes by M.Armoogum

(iii) The gas phase

In this phase, the particles are relatively far apart with very weak (negligible) forces present
between them. The particles are in complete disorder and are moving randomly. They are said to
be in continuous random motion.

Gases have no fixed volumes and no fixed shapes. They can easily be compressed.

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Notes by M.Armoogum
Notes by M.Armoogum

Pressure of a gas

Gas molecules are in continuous random motion. They collide with the walls of the container.
They experience a change in momentum. The rate of change of momentum represents the force
on the molecules. In accordance with Newton's 3rd law of motion, the molecules exert a force of
the walls. The force exerted per unit area represents the gas pressure.

This gas pressure can be increased by

(i) heating the gas at constant volume

When a gas is heated, its molecules gain kinetic energy and move faster. They then collide more
frequently with the walls of the container, with a greater momentum. the force exerted on these
walls increases so that pressure (Force/Area) increases

(ii) compressing the gas at constant temperature

When a gas is compressed, the molecules occupy less space. They then collide more frequently
with the walls of the container. They exert larger forces on these walls, causing an increase in
pressure (Force/Area)

Notes by M.Armoogum
Notes by M.Armoogum

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Notes by M.Armoogum