Chemistry (AS Level)·The gaseous state · NSSCAS 1.4

The ideal gas, real gases & pV = nRT

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A single equation captures the behaviour of every gas: pV = nRT. Learn the kinetic-theory assumptions behind the 'ideal' gas, when real gases obey them and when they don't, and how to use the equation — with the right units — to find pressure, volume, moles, or even a relative molecular mass.

What you'll learn in this lesson

By the end you should be able to (NSSCAS Chemistry (AS Level) 1.4):

  • State the basic assumptions of the kinetic theory as applied to an ideal gas
  • Explain, in terms of intermolecular forces and molecular size, the conditions for ideal behaviour and the limitations at very high pressure and very low temperature
  • Recall and use pV = nRT in calculations, including the determination of Mr (R = 8.31 J K⁻¹ mol⁻¹)
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The ideal gas, real gases & pV = nRT · NSSCAS Chemistry (AS Level) · namstudy