Average Force of Oxygen Molecule in Cubical Vessel

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the average force exerted by an oxygen molecule on the walls of a cubical vessel. Given the mass of the molecule (5.32E-26 kg) and its root mean square speed (484 m/s), the relevant equation for force is derived from the change in momentum over time. The solution involves using the formula F = (dP_x/dt) = (NAMv_x^2)/V, where N is the number of molecules and V is the volume of the vessel. The user initially struggled with the concept but later recalled the necessary equations to proceed with the calculation. The thread highlights the application of physics principles in determining molecular interactions within a confined space.
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Homework Statement


...Suppose an oxygen molecule (m=5.32E-26 kg) traveling at this speed (\nu_{rms}=484 m/s) bounces back and forth between opposite sides of a cubical vessel 0.10 m on a side. What is the average force the molecule exerts on one of the walls of the container? (Assume that the molecule's velocity is perpendicular to the two sides that it strikes.)

Homework Equations


F=\frac{dp}{dt}

The Attempt at a Solution


I can't remember how to do this, even after looking through my notes.
 
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Nevermind, I found it.

\frac{dP_x}{dt}=\frac{NAMv_x^2}{V}
 
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