What happens to the pressure inside a gas-filled ball when the temperature is increased? Explain your answer, stating the assumption made.

From definition of pressure have P=F/A (in reality for a ball we are talking about infinitesimal areas, but the general definition is sufficient at this level). Assume that the area of the surface under consideration stays fixed. This is an important point about physics in general as we must be aware of what assumptions are being made and if they are appropriate. This effectively means the shape of the ball stays fixed and so we can allow proportionality between P and F. By Newton II Law we know F=dp/dt and so combining equations have P=(1/A)dp/dt. Stating conservation of momentum in a collision and the assumption of infinite wall mass, and the kinetic definition of temperature (proportional to average particle kinetic energy sufficient). Hence an increase in temperature leads to an increased rms particle velocity, leading to an increased average particle momentum. Hence the overall pressure is increased as we observe a higher collision rate and a higher change in momentum per collision. 

Answered by James H. Physics tutor

1838 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Do the SUVAT equations work for acceleration that changes with time?


A space probe of mass 1000kg, moving at 200m/s, explosively ejects a capsule of mass 300kg. The speed of the probe after the explosion is 250m/s. What is the velocity of the capsule?


What is the most effective use of the equation sheet?


Calculate the kinetic energy of a car of mass 1.0*10^3kg moving at speed of 20ms^-1.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences