Why is pressure proportional to the square of molecular speed in an ideal gas?
Why is pressure proportional to the square of molecular speed in an ideal gas?
This is because pressure is a result of how momentum transfers during collisions. We also know that momentum depends on velocity. The derivation shows that pressure is proportional to the average of squared velocities. That we know from the root-mean-square (rms) speed.
Upvote 
Similar Questions for you
Through isotropy, we can say it enables equal distribution of velocity components in all directions. This allows us to replace directional velocity terms with a fraction of the total velocity squared. That basically simplifies the pressure formula to involve only rms speed.
Taking an Exam? Selecting a College?
Get authentic answers from experts, students and alumni that you won't find anywhere else.
On Shiksha, get access to
Learn more about...
Physics Kinetic Theory 2025
View Exam DetailsMost viewed information
SummaryDidn't find the answer you were looking for?
Search from Shiksha's 1 lakh+ Topics
Ask Current Students, Alumni & our Experts
Have a question related to your career & education?
See what others like you are asking & answering