Kinetic Molecular Theory

Definition

The Kinetic Molecular Theory is a model that explains the behavior of gases. It states that gas particles are in constant, random motion and that they collide with each other and the walls of their container without losing energy.

Related terms

Molecular Speed: This refers to how fast molecules move; in our analogy, it's like how fast balls move on a pool table.

Elastic Collision: This is when two objects collide and then separate without any loss in total kinetic energy; just like when two pool balls hit each other, they bounce off but don't slow down.

Pressure:

This is defined as force per unit area. In our analogy, it's similar to how hard those pool balls are hitting against each other and against the sides of the table.