Explain why the pressure exerted by a gas increases as they are heated at constant volume, with references to the kinetic theory of gases.

The kinetic theory models gas particles as points moving around with a given velocity. Heating the particles causes the transfer of heat energy, which is then used to increase the particles kinetic energy. This causes them to move with a greater velocity and hence exert an increased force on the sides of the container, which in turn causes the pressure to increase (recall pressure is defined as the normal force per unit area).

ZM
Answered by Zubair M. Physics tutor

6209 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the definition of a moment?


Explain what simple harmonic motion means?


Why is potential energy negative? What does that even mean?


What is the escape velocity of an object leaving a planet mass M, radius R?


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