Explain, in terms of the behaviour of molecules, how a gas exerts a pressure on the walls of its container. (4)

This question is 4 marks so you need to make at least 4 points.

These types of questions just require memorising the 4 points:

Lots of molecules collide with the walls.

The molecules change momentum as they collide with the walls.

Force is the rate of change of momentum.

Pressure = force/area.

Remember these 4 points and you'll get full marks for the question.

JF
Answered by Jake F. Physics tutor

24165 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why is an object that moves in a circular path accelerating when it has constant speed?


How do you work out the work out the current through resistors in parallel?


In one second a mass of 210 kg of air enters at A. The speed of this mass of air increases by 570 m s–1 as it passes through the engine. Calculate the force that the air exerts on the engine.


A railway car of mass m1 travelling at a velocity of v1 collides with a second car of mass m2 travelling at v2 and the two join together. What is their final velocity?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning