Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

Chapter 4

Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory

4. Mary is correct.
Checkpoint
Pressure is the force per unit area (i.e. p = FA ). So the
force F on an object is the pressure p on it times its
Checkpoint 1 (p. 141)
surface area A . Thus, the force acting on the hand by
the atmosphere is F = p A = (100)(0.01) = 1 kN.
1. The denser the nails, the larger the contact areas A
between the foot and the nails. By p = FA , a larger
A means a smaller pressure p on the man’s foot (as Checkpoint 2 (p. 153)
the man’s weight F is ixed). So the man feels the
pain milder. 1. The table is shown below.

2. (a) The air pressure inside the straw decreases.

Boyle’s law Charles’ law pressure law
(b) The forces are as shown below.
(a) A C B
(b) D E F
(c) T R S
(d) X Z Y

As the forces outside the straw is larger than
that inside, this makes the soft drink outside
move into the straw, and thus pushes the soft
drink inside the straw upwards.
(c) No
Since there is no air in outer space, there are
no forces acting on the liquid no matter inside
or outside the straw. So the liquid outside
would not move into the straw, and thus the
liquid inside would not be pushed upwards.
3. (a) F The atmospheric pressure pushes in a
direction perpendicular to the container
surface.
(b) T When the air density is lower, less air
molecules collide with the container surface.
As a result, the force acting on the container
surface by the air molecules becomes smaller,
and thus the atmospheric pressure decreases.
2. (a) Yes
Since air is pumped out slowly, the gas
temperature inside the balloon remains the
same as the environment.
(b) No
The gas pressure decreases as air is pumped
out from the jar.
(c) No
The balloon becomes bigger, this means that
the gas volume increases.
3. (a) No
Although the graphs are straight lines, they do
not pass through the origin. This shows that
pressure is not directly proportional to Celsius
temperature.
(b) Yes
As T (in Kelvin) = T (in Celsius) + 273, the
intersect at T = −273 ◦ C will now become the
origin if T is in the Kelvin scale. So the graphs
now pass through the origin and show that
pressure is directly proportional to Kelvin
temperature.
2| Chapter 4 Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory Checkpoint Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

(c) Yes (b) No

The lowest possible gas pressure is zero. As their temperature may be different, they
This corresponds to a gas temperature of may have different no. of moles of gas.
T = −273 ◦ C as shown by the graphs. So (c) Yes
−273 ◦ C is the lowest possible gas temperature. By Boyle’s law, the pressure doubles as the
4. (a) From Boyle’s law, pV = p ′V ′ . So the new gas volume is halved at constant temperature.
pressure is 3. (a) Yes
V 1 10 Strictly speaking, this equation applies to ideal
p′ = ′
p= p= p≈ 1.11p
gas only. So it is called the ideal gas law.
V 1 − 10% 9
(b) Yes
p p′
(b) From the pressure law, T = T′
. So the new gas A real gas at high temperature and low
pressure is pressure behaves like an ideal gas. So, broadly
T′ 1 + 20% speaking, this equation can still be applied.
p′ = p= p= 1.2p
T 1 (c) No
R (= 8.31 J K−1 mol−1 ) is the universal gas
V V′
(c) From Charles’ law, = T′
. So the new gas
T constant that applies to all types of ideal gas.
volume is
4. B By the general gas equation, we have
T′ (1 − 30%)
V′= V= V= 0.7V
T 1 p 1 V1 p 2 V2
=
T1 T2
Checkpoint 3 (p. 159) (100)(300) (200)V2
=
(27 + 273) (127 + 273)

1. (a) No ∴ V2 = 200 cm3

The pressure law states that p ∝ T in
kelvins, not in degree Celsius. A temperature Checkpoint 4 (p. 165)
increase from 25 ◦ C to 50 ◦ C corresponds to
the temperature increase from 298 K to 323 K, 1. (a) Pressure law
which is increased by a factor of about 1.08
(b) Boyle’s law
only.
(c) Charles’ law
(b) Yes
Boyle’s law states that p ∝ V1 at a ixed 2. (a) F On the contrary, the molecules of an ideal

temperature. So the gas pressure is doubled
when the gas volume is slowly halved.
The basketball has to be compressed slowly in order to
maintain a constant gas temperature inside the basketball.
(c) Yes
Doubling the no. of gas molecules doubles the
no. of moles n of the gas. By the ideal gas law
pV = nRT , the gas pressure p is doubled.
2. (a) No
pV
From pV = nRT , we have nT = R = constant.
So we only know the two gases must have the
same nT value. But their no. of moles of gas
may be different, so they may have different
temperature.
gas move much faster than the beads in the
jumping beads model.
(b) T The collisions between the ideal gas
molecules are elastic while that between the
beads in the model are inelastic.
(c) F Both the ideal gas molecules and the beads
exert forces on the container during collisions.
Actually, it is these forces that give rise to the pressure
of the gas.
3. (a) When he rests his head on the pillow, the
volume of the pillow decreases, and thus
the air molecules inside hit the pillow more
frequently. So, the air pressure inside the
pillow increases and the pillow feels hard.
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises Chapter 4 Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory Exercise |3

(b) When more air is pumped into the pillow, the (d) The total translational KE of all molecules
no. of air molecules inside the pillow increases, is given by the average translational KE per
and thus hit the pillow more frequently. So, the molecule times the total no. of molecules. Since
air pressure inside the pillow increases and the these two quantities of O2 and H2 are the same,
pillow feels hard. we have
(c) When the pillow is heated up, the gas tem-
total KE of O2 : total KE of H2 = 1:1
perature inside the pillow increases and the
air molecules inside the pillow have a higher
For gases that consist of more than one atom in each
average speed. Thus, the air molecules hit the
molecule (e.g. O2 and H2 ), they may have other types of
pillow more frequently and vigorously. So, the
KE besides the translational KE (e.g. rotational KE and vibrational
air pressure inside the pillow becomes higher
KE ). Be aware that the KE in the formulas E k = 3RT
2NA and total
and the pillow feels hard. 3
KE = 2 nRT refer to the translational KE only.
4. (a) Remain unchanged
4. (a) The root mean square speed is
(b) Increase
√
(c) Increase 3RT
v rms =
NA m
(d) Decrease √
(3)(8.31)(25 + 273)
=
(0.028)
Checkpoint 5 (p. 173)
≈ 515 m s−1

1. (a) T Brownian motion is an evidence of the

(b) The root mean square speed becomes
random motion of gas molecules.
√
(b) T When gas molecules collide with the walls ′ 3RT
v rms =
of the container, their momentum change due NA m
√
to the net forces acting on them by the wall. By
(3)(8.31)(100 + 273)
Newton’s third law, there are reaction forces =
(0.028)
acting on the wall by the molecules, and thus
≈ 576 m s−1
results in gas pressure.
(c) T In an ideal gas, there is no interaction
5. (a) T An ideal gas molecule is assumed to have
between the gas molecules. negligible size.
2. The term N m represents the total mass of the gas. (b) F Ideal gas molecules are assumed to be very

far apart and have no interaction with each

3. (a) By pV = nRT , two gases having the same
volume, no. of moles and temperature should
have the same pressure. So,
pressure of O2 : pressure of H2 =
other, so they have no PE at all temperature.
(c) T Since an ideal gas has no PE , all the energy
supplied to it must go into the KE of the gas
1:1
molecules.

3R
(b) By E k = 2N A
T , the average translational Exercise
KE of gas molecules depends only on the gas
temperature, which is the same for both O2 and
Exercise 4.1 (p. 142)
H2 . So,

1. (a) Pressure exerted by the left brick

average KE of O2 : average KE of H2 = 1:1

√ F 10
p1 = = = 2500 Pa
(c) By v rms = N3RT
Am
, the rms speed v rms ∝ p1
m
at A 0.08 × 0.05
the same temperature. So,
Pressure exerted by the right brick
1
v rms of O2 : v rms of H2 = p : 1 = 1:4 10
16 p2 = = 625 Pa
0.08 × 0.20
4| Chapter 4 Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory Exercise Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

(b) The rightmost pile exerts the greatest pressure. (b) The temperature difference
As the weights of all piles of bricks are the same, the
one with the smallest contact area exerts the greatest ∆T = 117 ◦ C − (−173 ◦ C)
pressure. = (117 + 273) K − (−173 + 273) K

2. The pressure exerted on the corkboard = 290 K

F 20 3. Option B is correct as there is no gas leakage.

p= = −7 = 200 MPa B
A 10
Option C is incorrect as the containers are
3. The average pressure exerted by each chair leg insulated.
Option D is incorrect as the new volume occupied
F (600 + 60)/3 by the gas is V ′ = V + 2V = 3V .
p= = ≈ 112 kPa
A π × (0.025)2 Option A is incorrect. By Boyle’s law,

4. (a) Pressure difference between the two sides of

pV = p ′ V ′
the glass
pV p
∴ p′ = = = 66.7 kPa
(3V ) 3
∆p = 100 − 80 = 20 kPa
4. A By pV = nRT , we have
So the force provided by this pressure
p i Vi p f Vf
difference is =
Ti Tf
p i Vi (1 − 0.45)p i Vf
F = ∆p A = (20 × 103 )(π × 0.052 ) ≈ 157 N =
25 + 273 13 + 273
∴ Vf = 1.745Vi
∴ the max. weight that can be lifted is 157 N.
(b) Any of the following: Thus the balloon’s volume increases by 74.5%.
• Increase the area of glass covered by the 5. C No. of mole of the air
cup
• Reduce the air pressure inside the cup pV (100 × 103 )(1)
n= = = 40.38 mol
RT (8.31)(25 + 273)
(Accept other reasonable answers.)
Mass of the air
5. The atmospheric pressure presses on both sides of
the window, so the net force acting on it is almost M = nm = (40.38)(0.028 × 80% + 0.032 × 20%)
zero. But when it is suddenly hit, the net force is
= 1.163 kg ≈ 1 kg
equal to the applied force, so it may break if the
applied pressure is too large.
OR: To ind the order of magnitude of the mass, we can
round off all the numbers without great loss of accuracy,
Exercise 4.2 (p. 159) i.e.

(100 × 103 )(1)

M = nm ≈ · (0.03) = 1.25 kg ≈ 1 kg
1. (a) Kelvin temp. = Celsius temp. + 273 (8)(300)
∴ −273 ◦ C = (−273 + 273) K = 0K

(b) 0 ◦ C = (0 + 273) K =
◦
(c) 33 C = (33 + 273) K =
(d) 100 ◦ C = (100 + 273) K =
2. (a) The temperature difference
273 K 6. (a) To allow the gas inside the syringe to attain the
306 K same temperature as its surroundings.
The gas inside may be heated up when the piston is
373 K
pushed due to the friction between the piston and the
syringe.

∆T = 53.9 ◦ C − (−69.3 ◦ C)
= (53.9 + 273) K − (−69.3 + 273) K
= 123.2 K
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises Chapter 4 Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory Exercise |5

(b) See the table below. (ii) The gas volume is not constant as the lask
expands.

p / kPa 97 110 125 143 165 (c) No

If the lask is heated directly above the lame,
1
V / 10−3 m−3 4 4.44 5 5.71 6.67
the gas inside will not be evenly heated.
The plotted graph is as shown below. So, the gas temperature is not uniform and
cannot be well represented by the reading of
a thermometer.

9. The no. of air molecules in the diesel engine is

constant. By pV = nRT , we have

p i Vi p f Vf
=
Ti T
( ) ( f )
1 × 105 V 40 × 105 (V /18)
=
(25 + 273) Tf
∴ Tf ≈ 662 K

10. By the pressure law, when the gas pressure is

300 kPa, the gas temperature inside the bulb is
( )
T1 20 + 273
The result agrees with Boyle’s law. T2 = p 2 × = (300) = 1172 K
p1 75
The best- it line of the graph is a straight line
passing through the origin, which shows that p 11. (a) For 1 mol of an ideal gas at 1 atm and 0 ◦ C,
is directly proportional to 1/V . by pV = nRT ,
7. (a) ℓ and T are linearly related. (1)(8.31)(273)
V= = 0.0224 m3 ≈ 22.4 dm3
(b) (i) See the igure below. 101.3 × 103

(b) For 1 mol of an ideal gas at 1 atm and 25 ◦ C,

(1)(8.31)(25 + 273)
V′= = 0.0244 m3 ≈ 24.4 dm3
101.3 × 103

12. From pV = nRT , the no. of moles of air molecules

pV
n = RT ∝ p for ixed V and T . So we have

n f p f 78.5
= = = 0.7772
ni ni 101

Thus, the percentage loss of air is 1 − 0.7772 = 22.3%.

13. (a) The table is shown below.

initial inal

(ii) The value of absolute zero from the graph V / cm3 340 − x 260 − x
is −250 ◦ C.
(b) As the piston is pushed slowly, the gas
8. (a) To ensure that the temperature of the temperature is kept constant. By Boyle’s law,
thermometer and that of the air inside the lask
are the same. p i Vi = p f Vf
(b) (i) The temperature of the gas inside the (101.4)(340 − x) = (131.8)(260 − x)
tubing is slightly lower than that inside ∴x≈ 6.84 cm3
the lask.
6| Chapter 4 Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory Exercise Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

14. If gas leakage occurs, n 2 < n1 and hence Exercise 4.3 (p. 173)

p 2 V2 p 1 V1 p 2 V2 /T2
< ⇒ <1 1. C Option D is correct as the energy supplied to an
T2 T1 p 1 V1 /T1
ideal gas must go into the KE of the gas molecules.
This means that by comparing the values of pV /T at Option B is correct. As the volume of the container is
the two stages, we can deduce if there is gas leakage. ixed, gas molecules moving faster hit the container
In container X , wall more frequently.
Option A is correct as the gas molecules hit the
p 2 V2 /T (20)(25)
= = 0.8333 < 1 container wall more frequently and vigorously.
p 1 V1 /T (6)(100)
Option C is incorrect. Since the gas volume is ixed,
∴ X has gas leakage. the average spacing between the gas molecules
In container Y , remains unchanged.

pV2 /T2 240/600 2. A The no. density of molecules ρ = N /V . Using

= =1 p3 p
pV1 /T1 160/400 V ∝ d 3 , we have d ∝ V ∝ 1/ 3 ρ . So the ratio
between the molecular separation of the steam d s
∴ Y does not have gas leakage.
and that of the water d w is
In container Z ,
√ √
p 2 V /T2 1.1/75 ds ρw 3 3.34 × 1028
= = 0.7333 < 1 = 3
= ≈ 12
p 1 V /T1 0.3/15 dw ρs 2.04 × 1025

∴ Z has gas leakage. 3. B Option B is correct as the gas temperature in X

and Y are the same.

15. (a) Consider point C . By pV = nRT , the no. of
moles of gas Options A, C and D are all incorrect. The volume
of X and Y are the same, but there are more gas
pV (200 × 103 )(200 × 10−6 ) molecules in X than in Y . So the gas density in X is
n= =
RT (8.31)(300) higher, and thus the gas molecules in X hit the wall
= 0.01604 ≈ 0.0160 mol more frequently. This results in a higher pressure
exerted by the gas in X .
(b) The temperature
4. (a) (i) Reduce the voltage supplied to the motor
pV (200 × 103 )(160 × 10−6 ) (ii) Put an additional weight on the
T= = = 240 K
nR (0.01604)(8.31) polystyrene disc
(c) The gas pressure (b) The pressure law states that p ∝ T under a
ixed V .
nRT (0.01604)(8.31)(500)
p= = = 222 kPa To simulate a temperature increase, the power
V (300 × 10−6 )
supplied to the motor is increased. So the
(d) See the graphs below. beads move faster, and thus hit the disc more
frequently and vigorously.
To keep the volume ixed, we have to increase
the weight on the disc. This simulates an
increase in pressure, as stated by the pressure
law.
(c) (i) Ideal gas: a very huge no. of molecules
Jumping beads model: a few beads only
(ii) Both are negligible.
(iii) Ideal gas: elastic
Jumping beads model: inelastic
(iv) Ideal gas: negligible
Jumping beads model: not negligible
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises Chapter 4 Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory Exercise |7

5. (a) (i) p : remain unchanged (iii) The ratio of the volume occupied by the
V : increase molecules to the volume of the gas
T : increase
(ii) Transition E v tot : V = 1.239 × 10−4 : 0.8
≈ 1:6460
(b) (i) p : increase
V : remain unchanged
(c) It is assumed that the size of each gas molecule
T : increase
can be neglected.
(ii) Transition B
This assumption holds as the volume occupied
(c) (i) p : increase by the gas molecules is only about 1/6460
V : decrease
(≈ 0.02%) of the gas volume.
T : remain unchanged
(ii) Transition A 8. (a) The total kinetic energy

3 3( )
6. Macroscopic view: The hot water heats up the air E K = pV = 1.01 × 105 (1) = 1.52 × 105 J
2 2
inside the ball, so the gas pressure inside increases.
Since the gas pressure inside becomes larger than (b) The total kinetic energy
that outside, the dented surface is pushed outwards,
3 3( )
and the ball resumes its original shape. E K = nRT = 1014 (8.31)(5800) ≈ 7.23 × 1018 J
2 2
Microscopic view: The energy coming from the hot
water goes into the KE of the air molecules inside 9. (a) Mass of a hydrogen molecule
the ball. So the molecules speed up and hit the
m 2.02 × 10−3
inner surface more frequently and vigorously. This m H2 = = = 3.36 × 10−27 kg (1M+1A)
NA 6.02 × 1023
results in a larger force pushing the dented surface
outwards. Hence, the ball resumes its original (b) Mean kinetic energy of an air molecule
shape.
3RT 3(8.31)(1100)
Ek = = ( ) (1M)
7. (a) By pV = nRT , the no. of moles of gas is 2NA 2 6.02 × 1023
( ) = 2.28 × 10−20 ≈ 2 × 10−20 J (1A)
pV 1 × 105 (0.8)
n= = = 32.31 mol
RT (8.31)(25 + 273)
(c) By E k = 12 mv 2 , the speed of a helium atom
So, the no. of gas molecules is √ (
√ )
( ) 2E k 2 2.28 × 10−20
N = nNA = (32.31) 6.02 × 10 23 v He = = (1M)
m He 6.6 × 10−27
= 1.945 × 1025 ≈ 1.95 × 1025
= 2630 m s−1 ≈ 2.5 km s−1 (1A)

(b) (i) The volume of a gas molecule is (d) Helium atoms have a wide range of speeds. (1A)

4 4 ( )3 Those having a speed higher than 11 km s−1

v = πr 3 = π 1.15 × 10−10 can escape from the Earth.
3 3 (1A)

−30
= 6.371 × 10
10. (a) Consider the gas at state A . By pV = nRT , the
≈ 6.37 × 10−30 m3 no. of moles of the gas
( )( )
(ii) The total volume occupied by all the pV 3.2 × 103 1.9 × 10−3
n= =
molecules is RT (8.31)(300)

( )( ) = 2.439 × 10−3 ≈ 2.44 × 10−3 mol

v tot = N v = 1.945 × 1025 6.371 × 10−30
= 1.239 × 10−4 ≈ 1.24 × 10−4 m3
8| Chapter 4 Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory Chapter Exercise Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

(b) Consider the gas at state B . By pV = nRT , the

Chapter Exercise
temperature
( )( )
pV 4.2 × 103 1.9 × 10−3 Multiple-choice Questions (p. 178)
T= = ( )
nR 2.439 × 10−3 (8.31)
1. B By p = F /A , the person with a smaller contact
= 393.7 ≈ 394 K
area with the ground exerts a larger pressure on the
(c) By pV = nRT , the volume of the gas at state C ground, and thus is more likely to sink.
is 2. A Statement (1) is correct. By Boyle’s law, when
( ) the volume of the balloon increases, the air pressure
nRT 2.439 × 10−3 (8.31)(300)
V= = inside decreases.
p 4.2 × 103
= 0.001448 ≈ 0.001 45 m3 Statement (2) is incorrect as the air temperature
inside the balloon remains constant.
(d) By E k = 32 nRT , the increase in internal energy Statement (3) is incorrect. As the volume of the
balloon increases, the density of air decreases.
∆E = E T − E 300 K
3 3. D Since the gas volume V ∝ ℓ, by Boyle’s law, we
= nR(T − 300)
2 have p ∝ 1/V ∝ 1/ℓ.
3( )
= 2.439 × 10−3 (8.31)(393.7 − 300)
2 4. B Statement (1) is correct as the graph is a straight

= 2.849 ≈ 2.85 J line extending to the origin.

Statement (2) is incorrect. By pV = nRT , we have
11. (a) Ideal gas is a gas that obeys the ideal gas law V ∝ T only when p is constant.
pV = nRT .
Statement (3) is correct. Since the mass of the
(b) Any of the following: gas is ixed, n is a constant. By pV = nRT , we get
pV
• The gas molecules are in random motion. T = nR = constant.

• The gas molecules have negligible sizes. 5. A Let x be the value of absolute zero in degrees
• There is no interaction between the Celsius. By pressure law,
molecules.
p p′
• The collisions between the gas molecules = ′
T T
and the container wall are elastic. p 2p
=
• The collision time is negligible compared T1 − x T2 − x
with the time between collisions. ∴ x = 2T1 − T2
• The effect of gravity on the molecules is
negligible. 6. B Options A and C are incorrect. As the gas

(c) At high pressure or low temperature, the gas temperature remains unchanged, the average speed
molecules are close together, and thus interact of the molecules and thus the momentum change in
strongly with one another. each collision remain unchanged.
Option D is incorrect as there is no gas lowing into
12. Yes
the cylinder.
From Fig. 4.21, for 1 mol of N2 gas at 1 atm, the
pV
value RT is approximately 1.0. This means that Option B is correct. The volume of the cylinder
N2 gas satis ies the ideal gas law well and can be decreases, so the molecules hit the cylinder wall
treated as an ideal gas. Since N2 gas is the main more frequently, and thus exert a larger pressure on
component of air (about 80%), air can also be the wall.
√
regarded as an ideal gas. 7. By v rms = 3RT
we have v rms ∝ p1m .
B NA m ,

√ √
v rms (x) my 4 1
∴ = = =
v rms (y) mx 36 3
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises Chapter 4 Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory Chapter Exercise |9

8. B Statement (1) is incorrect. The helium atoms Statement B is correct as the temperature in both
move at a wide range of speed. The rms speed v rms vessels are the same.
only gives an idea about the speed that most atoms Statement C is correct as the gas pressure in X is
are moving at. higher than that in Y .
Below shows the speed distribution curves of a gas at two Statement D is incorrect. By pV = nRT , the inal gas
different temperatures. Notice the speed that most atoms are pressure is
moving at is about 0.8v rms , and this speed becomes higher when
temperature is increased. (n X + n Y )RT 2nRT 2 3
pf = = = p ̸= p
(V + 2V ) 3V 3 2

Structured Questions (p. 180)

12. (a) The experimental set-up is shown below:

Statement (2) is incorrect. The average speed of

√( is given by v = )(v 1 + v 2 + ... + v n ) /n while
the atoms
v rms = v 12 + v 22 + ... + v n2 /n .
Water bath and burner: 1A
Statement (3) is correct. By E k = 12 mv 2 , we have Connection of the Bourdon gauge: 1A
Flask and thermometer immersed in water: 1A
1 2 1 ( )
mv rms = m v 12 + v 22 + ... + v n2 /n
2 2 (b) See the graph below.
= (E k1 + E k2 + ... + E kn ) /n
= avg. KE of the atoms

9. D From KEtot = 32 nRT , we know that the slope of

the graph is 32 nR ∝ n . Having a smaller slope means
the no. of mole of gas is smaller. So Y has a smaller
no. of molecules.

10. A By pressure law, doubling the gas pressure

doubles the gas temperature (in Kelvin scale). As
the Kelvin temperature is doubled in row A (from
300 K to 600 K), row A shows the possible values for
T1 and T2 .
The intercept on the T –axis is −270 ◦ C. (1A)
11. D Statement A is correct. By pV = nRT , the ratio of
It is the absolute zero of temperature. (1A)
the no. of mole of gas in X to that in Y is

nX p X VX TY (2p)V T
= · = · =1
nY TX p Y VY T p(2V )

So X and Y contain the same no. of gas molecules.

10 | Chapter 4 Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory Chapter Exercise Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

(c) The straight line passes through the point • There is friction between the piston and
(50 ◦ C, 104 kPa), so we have the wall of the syringe.

p2 − p1 104 − 0
• The temperature in the water bath is not
slope = = (1M)
uniform.
T2 − T1 50 − (−270)
= 0.325 kPa ◦ C−1 (Accept other reasonable answers.)
(d) When temperature rises, the average KE of the
The gas temperature T at 180 kPa is given by gas molecules in the syringe increases. (1A)

180 − 0 The molecules move faster and collide with the

0.325 =
T − (−270) piston more frequently and vigorously. (1A)

∴T = 284 ◦ C (1A)
This results in a larger force pushing the piston
upwards, and thus increases the volume. (1A)

Alternative Solution: 14. (a) Connect the round-bottom lask to the

The gas temperature T can also be found by Bourdon gauge with the rubber tubing.
proportion. Immerse the lask and the thermometer in the
water bath, and record the initial pressure and
temperature. (1A)

Gently heat the water bath with the Bun-

sen burner, and stir it throughout the
experiment. (1A)

Record several pairs of pressure and

By proportion,
temperature. (1A)

T − (−270) 320 Plot a graph of pressure against

= (1M)
180 104
temperature. (1A)
∴T = 284 ◦ C (1A)

(b) Any of the following: (1A)

13. (a) (i) The graph is shown below. • The rubber tubing should be short.
• The gas in the lask should be dry.
(Accept other reasonable answers.)

15. See the graph below.

Two correct axes: 1A

Correct data points: 1A
(a) (i) Correct new position on the dashed line: 1A
A best- it straight line: 1A
Correct intercept: 1A (ii) Correct new position on the dashed line: 1A
(ii) From the graph, the intersection of the line (iii) Correct new position on the dashed line: 1A
and the temperature axis is −275 ◦ C. (1A) (b) Correct position: 1A
(b) At constant pressure, V is directly proportional Correct shape of the graph: 1A
to T (in kelvins). (1A) (c) Correct position: 1A
(c) Any of the following: (2A) Correct shape of the graph: 1A
• Moisture gets into the syringe so that the The shape of the graph is determined by the condition
gas is not dry. pV = nRT = constant.
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises Chapter 4 Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory Chapter Exercise | 11

16. (a) In each stroke, the relation between the initial 17. (a) Let c 2 be the mean of the square values of the
pressure p and inal pressure p ′ is given by speeds of the gas atoms.
Boyle’s law: By pV = nRT and pV = 31 N mc 2 ,
V
p′ = p
V′ 1
nRT = N mc 2 (1M)

Let p 0 be the initial pressure in vessel X and 3

3RT ( n )
p i be the pressure in vessel X after the i -th ∴c =
2
m N
stroke, we have 3RT 1
= · (1M)

0.03 NA m
p1 = p0
0.031
0.03 ( 0.03 )2 So when T is the same, c 2 ∝ m1 . (1M)

p2 = p1 = p0
0.031 0.031 (b) Krypton gas (1A)

.. √
. (c) The rms speed v rms equals c 2 . (1M)

( 0.03 )i From (a), c 2 ∝ m1 . So we have

pi = p0 (1A)
0.031 v
u √
u 2
When p i = 100 Pa, v rms, Kr u c Kr m Ne
=t =
v rms, Ne 2
c Ne m Kr
( 0.03 )i
100 = (1 × 105 ) (1M)
√
0.031 5
∴ v rms, Kr = (609) (1M)
100 0.03 21
ln 5
= i ln
1 × 10 0.031 ≈ 297 m s−1 (1A)

∴ i = 210.7
18. (a) By pV = nRT , the no. of mole of gas in W
So, it takes 211 strokes to reduce the pressure ( )( )
in vessel X to 100 Pa. pV 120 × 103 50 × 10−6
n= =
(1A)
(1M)
RT (8.31)(273)
(b) Yes (1A)
= 0.002 645 ≈ 0.002 65 mol (1A)
In each stroke, the no. of gas molecules loss is
equal to the no. of gas molecules in chamber C .
(b) By nRT = 13 N mv rms
2
, we have
As chambers X and C have common p and T ,
√
by pV = nRT , we know that n ∝ V . (1A)
3RT
v rms =
So the percentage loss of gas molecules (i.e. NA m
nC /n tot ) is equal to the volume portion of √
3(8.31)(273)
chamber C (i.e. VC /Vtot ), whose value is = ( )( ) (1M)
6.02 × 1023 4.50 × 10−26
ixed. (1A)
≈ 501 m s−1 (1A)
(c) By pV = nRT , the no. of mole of gas is
( ) (c) Since tap Z is open, the gas pressure in the two
pV (100) 1 × 10−6
n= = (1M) containers is the same, (1M)
RT (8.31)(25 + 273)
so we have
= 4.04 × 10−8 mol

pVW = nW RTW and pV X = n X RT X

So, the no. of molecules is
( )(
N = nNA = 4.04 × 10−8 6.02 × 1023
= 2.43 × 1016
) As the total no. of gas molecules in the two
containers is conserved,
(1A)

nW + n X = n tot (1M)

pVW pV X
+ = n tot
RTW RT X
( )
p 50 × 10−6 100 × 10−6
+ = 0.002645 (1M)
8.31 100 + 273 273
∴p≈ 43.9 kPa (1A)
12 | Chapter 4 Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory Chapter Exercise Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

19. (a) As the piston is in equilibrium, the pressure 20. (a) (i) The diagram is shown below.
due to the weight of the piston equals the
pressure of the gas. By p = FA and pV = nRT ,

mg nRT
=
A V
(250)(9.81) (0.2)(8.31)T1
= (1M)
0.5 (0.5 × 0.5)
∴ T1 = 737.8 ≈ 738 K (1A)

(b) (i) The piston moves upwards until the gas

pressure equals the pressure due to its Water bath surrounding the lask: 1A
weight again. By Charles’ law, Apparatus for heating with correct label: 1A
V1 V2 (ii) Use a burner to boil the water to reach
=
T1 T2 100 ◦ C and use an ice bath to reach 0 ◦ C.
0.5 × 0.5 0.9 × 0.5
= (1M)
(1A)

737.8 T2
(iii) Immerse a thermometer in the water
T2 = 1328 ≈ 1330 K (1A)
bath. (1A)

(iv) Any of the following: (2A)

• Fully immerse the lask in the water

(ii) The energy gained by the gas
bath.
3 • Remove the burner when taking
E = nR∆T
2 readings.
3
= (0.2)(8.31)(1328 − 737.8) (1M)
• Allow time for the apparatus to reach
2
= 1471 ≈ 1470 J (1A)
thermal equilibrium.
• Put the thermometer close to the lask.
(c) The energy gained all goes into the KE of (Accept other reasonable answers.)
the gas molecules. By KE tot = 32 nRT and
(b) The graph is shown below.
pV = nRT , we have

3 3
∆E = nR∆T = ∆pV
2 2
3
800 = ∆p(0.9 × 0.5) (1M)
2
∴ ∆p = 1185 Pa

To overcome the increase in pressure, by p = FA ,

the external force required is

∆F = ∆p A = (1185)(0.5) (1M) Straight line graph: 1A

Correct temp. unit: 1A
≈ 593 N (1A)
Line consistent with the labelled temp. scale: 1A

Ideal gas has no intermolecular PE . So all the energy

supplied to an ideal gas must go into the KE of the gas
molecules.
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises Chapter 4 Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory Chapter Exercise | 13

21. (a) (i) The values of pV (in kPa cm3 ) are 22. (a) (i) By pV = 13 N mv rms
2
, we have
tabulated below. √
3pV
v rms = (1M)
Nm
p / kPa 100 105 110 115 v
u ( )( )
u 3 300 × 103 2.14 × 10−6
pV 2000 1995 2002 2001 t
= ( )( ) (1M)
1.70 × 1020 1.39 × 10−25
Correct values of pV : 1A = 285.49 ≈ 285 m s−1 (1A)

The values of pV are constant. (1A)

(ii) As the volume of gas decreases, the gas (ii) The relative molecular mass of Kr is
molecules collide with the walls of the ( )( )
container more frequently. (1A) mNA = 1.39 × 10−25 6.02 × 1023 (1M)

−1
So the gas molecules exert a greater force ≈ 0.0837 kg mol = −1
83.7 g mol (1A)

on the wall of the container, and result in a

greater pressure. (1A) (iii) By pV = nRT , we have

(b) (i) The pressure due to water is pV

T=
nR
mg (ρ Ah)g pV NA
pw = = =
A A (1A)
( ) ( NR )( )( )
= ρg h = 1.02 × 103 (9.81)(12.0) (1M) 300 × 103 2.14 × 10−6 6.02 × 1023
= ( ) (1M)
= 1.201 × 10 Pa5
1.70 × 1020 (8.31)
= 273.6 ≈ 274 K (1A)
So the total pressure at a depth of 12.0 m is

p tot = 1.01 × 105 + 1.201 × 105 Alternative Solution:

By nRT = 13 N mv rms
2 , we have
≈ 2.21 × 105 Pa (1A)

2
N mv rms
(ii) Since the mass and the temperature of the T=
3nR
air are ixed, by Boyle’s law, 2
NA mv rms
= (1A)
3R
p1 ( )( )
V2 = V1 6.02 × 1023 1.39 × 10−25 (285)2
p2 = (1M)
3(8.31)
5
1.01 × 10
= · 1.50 × 10−3 (1M)
= 272.6 ≈ 273 K (1A)

2.21 × 105
≈ 6.86 × 10−4 m3 (1A) (b) As the bubble rises, the pressure decreases.
(1A)

(c) When she rises to the water surface, the By Boyle’s law, the volume of the gas bubble
pressure decreases. (1A)
increases. (1A)

By Boyle’s law, the volume of air in her lung

increases, and therefore her lungs may be
damaged. (1A)
14 | Chapter 4 Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory Chapter Exercise Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

23. (a) (i) See the diagram below. 24. (a) (i) The average KE of the gas atoms

3RT 3(8.31)(273)
Ek = = ( ) (1M)
2NA 2 6.02 × 1023
= 5.653 × 10−21 ≈ 5.65 × 10−21 J (1A)

(ii) From the question, the mass of one mole of

neon gas is mNA = 0.0202 kg mol−1 .
Since the temperature is constant By 12 mv rms
2
= 3RT
2NA , the rms speed is

throughout the process, by Boyle’s law, √

3RT
v=
p 1 V1 = p 2 V2 (1M) mNA
√
′
(100)(V + 6000) = (156)(6000) (1M) 3(8.31)(273)
= (1M)
′
∴ V = 3360 cm 3
(1A)
0.0202
= 580.45 ≈ 580 m s−1 (1A)

Alternative Solution:
(iii) The internal energy U of an ideal gas is
Consider the amount of gas in the basketball.
solely the total molecular KE . Thus
By pV = nRT ,

before pumping (100)(6000) = n 1 RT U = N · E k = nNA · E k

( )( )
after pumping (156)(6000) = n 2 RT = (2.5) 6.02 × 1023 5.653 × 10−21 (1M)

= 8508 ≈ 8510 J (1A)

So, the amount of air pumped into the
basketball
(b) (i) By pV = nRT ,
(156)(6000) (100)(6000)
∆n = n 2 − n 1 = − ( )
RT RT
100 × 103 V0 = (2.5)(8.31)(273) (1M)
336 000
= (1M)
RT ∴ V0 = 0.05672 ≈ 0.0567 m 3
(1A)

The volume occupied by this amount of air at

100 kPa is (ii) As state Y has the same temperature as
state X , the internal energy at state Y is
(∆n)RT 336 000
V′= = = 3360 cm3 (1M+1A) the same as state X , i.e. UY = 8510 J. (1A)
p 100
Since state Z has the same pressure but
(ii) The min. no. of strokes double volume as state X , by pV = nRT ,
= 3360/120 = 28 (1A) the temperature of state Z is twice as that
(b) As the volume and the temperature are ixed, of state X . (1A)

(1A)
Thus, as U ∝ E k ∝ T , the internal energy
the increase in the number of molecules at state Z
hitting the wall of the basketball per unit time
U Z = 2 × 8508 (1M)
increases the pressure in the basketball. (1A)

≈ 17 000 J (1A)
OR: The molecules hit the wall of the basketball
more frequently. (1A)
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises Chapter 4 Gas Laws and Kinetic Theory Chapter Exercise | 15

25. (a) The pressure ratio p i : p f = 2 × 107 : 1 × 106 = 3. D Statement (1) is correct as the average KE of the
20 : 1 (1A) molecules increases.
(b) (i) The pressure exerted on the diver is equal Statements (2) and (3) are correct. The area under
to the sum of the atmospheric pressure the graph is the total no. of molecules, which is a
and the pressure due to the water above constant as the mass of gas is ixed. Since more
him. Thus molecules are moving at high speed, the graph is
30 ( ) lattened out to keep the area under it constant, and
p = 1 × 105 + × 1 × 105 (1M)
thus the peak value decreases.
10
= 400 kPa (1A)
4. In the kinetic theory equation pV = 13 N mc 2 , the
factor ‘ 13 ’ comes up in the following step:
(ii) As the temperature remains unchanged, by
Boyle’s law, 1
v 2 = v x2 + v 2y + v z2 ⇒ 〈v x2 〉 = 〈v 2 〉
3
p 1 V1 = p 2 V2
( ) ( ) The factor ‘ 13 ’ comes from the assumption that
( ) 4 ( ) 4 3
4 × 105 π × 13 = 1 × 105 πr (1M)
the gas molecules are in random motion inside a 3
3 3
∴r ≈ 1.59 mm (1A)
dimensional container. This means the chances
for the molecules to move in x , y and z directions
(c) When the diver ascends, the pressure exerted are the same, i.e. the velocity of the molecules is
on him deceases by 1 × 105 Pa every 10 m. If he isotropic. Thus, we have 〈v x2 〉 = 〈v 2y 〉 = 〈v z2 〉.
ascends too quickly, his body may not get used If the molecules are in random motion inside a 2-dimensional
to the sudden change in pressure. (1A) container (e.g. on a water surface), then
This may result in joint pain, rash, paralysis and even
1
death. v 2 = v x2 + v 2y ⇒ 〈v x2 〉 = 〈v 2 〉
2

Shoot-the-stars Questions (p. 184) So, the kinetic theory equation that applies to 2D situations is
pV = 12 N mc 2 .
1. C For a ixed mass of ideal gas, the ideal gas law
5. If some charged foam balls stick to the wall, the no.
states that pV ∝ T . Consider the following three
of balls jumping in the container decreases. So the
points on the p –V graph: (4, 6), (8, 4) and (12, 2).
frequency of collisions on the piston decreases, and
The corresponding pV values are 24, 32 and 24
hence the pressure on the piston decreases. Thus,
respectively. This shows that the temperature of
the height of the piston decreases.
the gas irst rises and then falls back to the initial
value. So, graph C shows the corresponding p –T
relationship.

2. A Statement (1) is correct. By pV = nRT , the

volume of X is larger than Y . Since the no. of gas

molecules in both vessels are the same, the gas
molecules in X is farther apart than that in Y .
Statement (2) is incorrect. As the gas molecules
move at a wide range of speed, not all gas molecules
in X have greater KE than that in Y .
Statement (3) is incorrect. The pressure on
the vessel’s wall depends on two factors: how
vigorously are the molecules colliding with the wall,
and how often are the collisions. As the temperature
of X is higher, the molecules in X collide with the
wall more vigorously. But the pressure of X and Y is
the same, so the collision frequency in X is smaller
than Y .