What is the kinetic theory of matter? Explained in detail.

What is kinetic theory of matter ? 

    

                                                  

The  kinetic   theory of matter states  that matter is made up of extremely small particles (atoms and molecules) and that are in random motion and have space between them. 

Introduction :

The kinetic theory of matter which is also called the kinetic-molecular theory and kinetic particle theory of matter. This theory is a concept that basically states that matter is made up of atoms and molecules that possesses  an energy of motion(kinetic energy) that we perceive as temperature. In other words, atoms and molecules are constantly in motion and we measure the energy of these movements as the temperature of the substance. The kinetic theory is very useful in explaining Or describing the forces between the molecules and the energy that they possess as well as, the effect of thermal energy (heat), temperature and pressure on matter. It also helps to explain the flow or transfer of heat through matter. 

Kinetic theory is based on two assumptions:

• Matter is made up of small particles(atoms or molecules). 

• The particles are in constant motion.

You know that any thing in motion has kinetic energy, so matter too has kinetic energy due to the motion of  its particles. This energy is related to temperature. You know that when a substance is heated, or supplied with energy, it's temperature rises. The heat or energy supplied to the substance makes the particles in it more  energetic and they move faster. The kinetic theory explains the properties of different states of matter. The particle in solid, liquids and gas have different amount of energy. They are arranged differently and move in different ways. 

Postulates of kinetic theory:

• All matter is made up of tiny  particles called atoms that are joined to  molecules. 

• These particles are in constant motion which is random, free and in straight line, due to which the particles passes kinetic energy. The motion increase as they gain energy( such as heat)which is expressed by increase in temperature. 

•  Several kinds of forces of attraction exist between the molecules. These forces are called intermolecular forces of attraction. More the energy contant of the molecules, lesser are the attractive forces. 

•every particle has empty space between each other called intermolecular space. Greater the intermolecular forces of attraction, lesser are the intermolecular spaces. 

Kinetic energy and it's equation:

As noted earlier, if an object of mass  m  has velocity  v  , it's kinetic energy  k  is

              K.E. = 1/2 m v2

Kinetic energy is a scalar quantity. The kinetic energy of an object is a measure of the work an object can do by the virtue of its motion. This notion has been intuitively known for a long time. 

The different molecules have different speeds, as a result the molecules have different kinetic energies (K.E. = 1/2 m v2) under these circumstances, it's is assumed that the average kinetic energy is proportional to the absolute temperature. 

It has been observed that when the gas is heated, it's temperature rises this is because of the fact that thermal energy results into increase in the average kinetic energy of gas molecules. 

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