Introduction to Kinetic

Molecular Theory

Kinetic Molecular Theory is a fundamental concept in chemistry that explains the

behavior of gases and the properties of matter at the molecular level. It provides
a framework for understanding the motion, energy, and interactions of gas
particles.

by Erika Espina
Assumptions of Kinetic Molecular Theory

1 Particles in Constant Motion 2 Negligible Volume

Gas particles are in constant, random motion, The volume of the individual gas particles is
colliding with each other and the container negligible compared to the total volume of the
walls. container.

3 No Attractive Forces 4 Elastic Collisions

There are no attractive or repulsive forces Collisions between gas particles and the
between the gas particles, except during direct container walls are perfectly elastic, with no
collisions. loss of kinetic energy.
Explanation of Pressure
Particle Collisions 1
Gas particles continuously collide with the
container walls, exerting a force on them.
2 Pressure Definition
Pressure is defined as the force exerted per
unit area on the container walls by the gas
Relationship to Temperature 3 particles.
Pressure is directly proportional to the
kinetic energy of the gas particles, which is
related to temperature.
Explanation of Temperature
Average Kinetic Energy Particle Velocity Thermal Energy

Temperature is a measure of the As temperature increases, the Temperature is directly related to

average kinetic energy of the gas average velocity of the gas the thermal energy of the gas,
particles. Higher temperatures particles also increases, leading which is the total kinetic energy
correspond to greater kinetic to more frequent and energetic of all the particles.
energy. collisions.
Explanation of Diffusion

1 Random Motion 2 Concentration Gradient

Gas particles are in constant, random motion, Diffusion occurs from regions of higher
moving in all directions. concentration to regions of lower
concentration.

3 Collision and Mixing 4 Equilibrium State

As gas particles collide, they mix and spread Diffusion continues until the gas reaches a state
out, eventually becoming evenly distributed. of equilibrium, with a uniform concentration
throughout.
Explanation of Effusion

Tiny Aperture Particle Velocity Separation of Gases

Effusion occurs when gas The rate of effusion is inversely Effusion can be used to separate
particles pass through a tiny proportional to the square root different gas species based on
hole or aperture in a container of the molar mass of the gas their molar masses.
wall. particles.
Applications of Kinetic Molecular Theory
Gas Laws
Kinetic Molecular Theory explains the
relationships between pressure, volume,
temperature, and the number of gas particles, as
described by the gas laws.
Transport Processes
Kinetic Molecular Theory is used to model and
understand transport processes such as diffusion,
osmosis, and effusion, which are important in
various scientific and industrial applications.
Chemical Reactions
The theory provides a framework for
understanding the rates and mechanisms of
chemical reactions, including the role of collision
frequency and energy.
Material Science
The theory helps explain the behavior of
materials, including phase changes, thermal
conductivity, and the properties of solids, liquids,
and gases.
Limitations and Exceptions of Kinetic
Molecular Theory
Ideal Gas Assumptions Intermolecular Forces Phase Transitions

The theory assumes that gas
particles behave as ideal gases,
which is not always the case,
particularly at high pressures or
low temperatures.
The theory does not account for
intermolecular forces between
gas particles, which can become
significant at high densities or
for certain types of molecules.
The theory has difficulty
explaining the complex behavior
of matter during phase
transitions, such as the critical
points and triple points of
substances.