Average Speed in Kinetic-Molecular model

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SUMMARY

The Kinetic-Molecular model assumes that the square of the x, y, and z velocity components of gas molecules are equal, which is foundational for understanding gas behavior in statistical physics. This assumption is based on the theorem of equipartition, which is rigorously proven in advanced courses. The average value of the squares of the velocity components is utilized to derive key properties of gases. For further reading, the Wikipedia article on the equipartition theorem provides additional insights.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Kinetic-Molecular theory of gases
  • Familiarity with statistical physics concepts
  • Knowledge of the theorem of equipartition
  • Basic mathematical skills for handling velocity components
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the theorem of equipartition in detail
  • Explore the implications of the Kinetic-Molecular model on gas laws
  • Study statistical mechanics and its applications in thermodynamics
  • Examine the mathematical derivations of velocity distributions in gases
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, as well as educators teaching the Kinetic-Molecular model and its applications in gas behavior.

Ibraheem
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Hello,

In the Kinetic-Molecular model for gas molecules in a container it is assumed that the square of the x-y-z velocity components is the same, how is it possible that we assume this?
 
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Why would you feel that one component should be more, or less, than another?
By the way, the assumption is made of the average value of the squares of the components of the velocity.
Also, it is an assumption when the topic is taught at a basic level. In advanced course in statistical physics, it is proved. It is called the theorem of equipartition.
 
Thanks for the replies, I can see why this is the case now.
 

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