The Maxwellian Distribution describes the statistical distribution of speeds for particles in a gas that is in thermal equilibrium, derived from the kinetic theory of gases. It provides a foundational understanding of how particle velocities are distributed in a system, crucial for predicting macroscopic properties like pressure and temperature.

Maxwellian Distribution

statistical distribution of speeds

particles in a gas

Thermal equilibrium is a state in which two or more objects in thermal contact no longer exchange energy through heat, resulting in a uniform temperature across the system. It is a fundamental concept in thermodynamics that underlies the zeroth law, which allows the definition of temperature scales.

thermal equilibrium

The Kinetic Theory of Gases explains the macroscopic properties of gases by considering their molecular composition and motion. It assumes that gases consist of a large number of small particles in constant, random motion, and that the pressure exerted by a gas results from collisions of the particles with the walls of the container.

kinetic theory of gases

particle velocities

Macroscopic properties are the large-scale characteristics of a system that arise from the collective behavior of its microscopic components. These properties, such as temperature, pressure, and volume, are typically measurable and provide insight into the system's overall state and behavior without requiring detailed knowledge of its individual particles.

macroscopic properties

Pressure is the force exerted per unit area on the surface of an object, which can arise from various sources such as gases, liquids, or solids. It plays a crucial role in numerous scientific and engineering applications, influencing phenomena ranging from weather patterns to the behavior of gases and liquids in different environments.

pressure

Temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of the particles in a substance, which determines how hot or cold that substance feels. It plays a critical role in various scientific disciplines, influencing physical states, chemical reactions, and biological processes.

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