CHEMISTRY · Multi-part · AP · Chemistry · Properties of Substances and Mixtures · Properties of Substances and Mixtures
Problem
A 1.0mol sample of argon gas is confined in a rigid, perfectly insulated vessel. Initially the gas is at an absolute temperature of 300K, and its Maxwell-Boltzmann speed distribution is carefully recorded.
The gas is then heated (by an electric heater inside the vessel) to a new equilibrium temperature of 450K, still at constant volume.
(a) Describe qualitatively how the position, height, and width of the peak of the speed distribution change as the temperature is raised from 300K to 450K. Include a brief explanation for each change.
(b) On appropriately labeled axes, sketch the original (300K) and final (450K) speed distributions on the same set of axes. Clearly indicate relevant differences between the two curves.
(c) Explain why the total area under each curve remains the same even though the shape changes.
(d) Using your understanding of molecular motion, discuss how the change in the distribution affects the average force per collision with the vessel wall and hence the gas pressure.