The kinetic theory of gases begins with some basic assumptions depending on the behavior of gas molecules. These assumptions are called the postulates of the kinetic theory of gases which are summarized below.
Postulates of Kinetic Theory of Gases
- All gases consist of a large number of tiny discrete particles called molecules.
- All molecules in one gas are equal in shape, size, and mass, but these differ from one gas to another.
- Gas molecules are always in random motion. They move in all possible directions in a straight line.
- Molecules within a container collide with each other and with the wall of the container. These collisions are perfectly elastic in nature and there is no change in total kinetic energy before and after the collision.
- Gas molecules are point masses, and the actual volume of the gas molecules is negligible in comparison to that of the volume of the vessel.
- The pressure of a gas is due to the bombardment of the molecules on the wall of the vessel.
- There is no force of attraction and repulsion between the gas molecules.
- The kinetic energy of a gas is directly proportional to absolute temperature.
Questions Based on the Postulates of Kinetic Theory of Gases
The following types of questions may be asked based on the kinetic theory of gases.
- Write down the postulates of the kinetic molecular theory of gases
- What are the postulates of the kinetic theory of gases?
- State the postulates of the kinetic theory of gases.
- Write any three postulates of the kinetic theory of gases.
- What are the main postulates of the kinetic theory of gases?
