Find the pressure p_1 due to a single particle

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the pressure p_1 due to a single particle, emphasizing the need to express it in terms of Boltzmann's constant (k_B), temperature (T), and the dimensions of a rectangular prism (L_x, L_y, L_z). Initial attempts using the ideal gas law were deemed incorrect due to the context of a single particle rather than moles. Participants clarify the definitions of the variables involved and confirm that the pressure can be derived from the relationship p = F/A, where force is related to momentum change. The final expressions for pressure are discussed, including p = (m*v_x)/V, highlighting the importance of understanding the dynamics of a single particle in a confined space. The conversation illustrates the complexities of applying thermodynamic principles to individual particles.
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Please help.

Find the pressure p_1 due to a single particle. Express the pressure due to a single particle in terms of k_B, T, L_x, L_y, L_z, and any other given quantities.

I tried using pV=N(k_b)T, but it is wrong.

Thank you.
 

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Care to define those variables?
 
k_B is boltzmanns constant. If you look at the picture, you can see that L_x, L_y, and L_z are the length, width and height of the rectangular prism. T is the absolute temperature.
 
You can express V in terms of L_x, L_y, L_z
Is this mastering physics?

p = kT/V

No moles here, single particle.
 
Yeah, mastering physics. That's what stuffed me up- the moles. Thanks.
 
Ok...I've now found the pressure for that, and I also found the pressure fon the wall due to a single particle whose squared speed in the x direction is v_x^2 [the answer to the later is (m*v_x)/V]. Now I need to find the pressure in terms of T, k and V, and any other given quantities, but I can't seem to get it.
 
Show me your work for finding the pressure for v_x, and v_x^2.
 
p = F/A

The force is equal to dp(momentum)/dt = (2mv_x)/((2*L_x)/(v_x))

Area = Ly*Lz

Therefore, p = (m*v_x)/V
 
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