Particle physics / ideal gas problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the root mean square (rms) speed of dust particles treated as an ideal gas, specifically those with a diameter of 11.0 micrometers and a density of 2500 kg/m³ at a temperature of 23.0 degrees Celsius. The relevant equation for this calculation is vrms = √(3kBT/m), where kB is the Boltzmann constant and m is the mass of a single dust particle. Participants emphasized the importance of determining the mass of a single particle from its diameter and density to successfully apply the rms speed formula.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of ideal gas laws and properties
  • Familiarity with the Boltzmann constant (kB)
  • Knowledge of how to calculate mass from density and volume
  • Basic grasp of root mean square speed calculations
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  • Calculate the mass of a single dust particle using its diameter and density
  • Learn about the Boltzmann constant and its application in gas laws
  • Explore the derivation of the ideal gas law and its implications
  • Study the concept of rms speed in different states of matter
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Students and educators in physics, particularly those focused on thermodynamics and particle physics, as well as researchers interested in the behavior of aerosols and fine particulate matter in gaseous states.

greenskyy
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Homework Statement


Dust particles are approximately 11.0 micrometers in diameter. They are pulverized rock, with density 2500 kg/m^3. If you treat dust as an ideal gas, what is the rms speed of a dust particle at 23.0 degrees C?

Homework Equations


I have no idea.
The only one I would bet money on is:

[tex]v_{rms}=\sqrt{\frac{3k_{B}T}{m}}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


I made a couple of far-reached guesses at this problem and came to the wrong answer. One method was to use the ideal gas law with pressure = 101325 Pa, and getting the number of particles to be 2.48*10^25. My main issue here is going from density and radius of a particle to a molecular mass or a correct number of particles. I am completely stumped by the problem and getting nowhere. If anyone could offer help, I would greatly appreciate it.
 
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Well, show us your work for what you've done so far and maybe we'll be able to offer more help! I'll give you a couple of hints though: The absolute temperature of an ideal gas is proportional to its random translational kinetic energy. How might this help you solve the problem?
 
Your starting formula is OK,

[tex] v_{rms}=\sqrt{\frac{3k_{B}T}{m}}[/tex]

but why do you want the number of he particles? In the formula, m means the mass of a single particle. Given the diameter and density, it is easy to get.

ehild
 

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