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I6-38. Molecular Motion Demo - Boyle's Law

Purpose

To model Boyle's law.

Equipment

E.M.E. Molecular Motion Demonstrator with accessories as pictured.

Images

I6-38

Description

A set of small balls of equal mass models the air. The balls are set into motion by vibration of the walls with the device level. A bar is positioned in the device to divide the volume into two parts, with all of the balls on one side. Two lines are drawn as shown to define a small length of the wall. A rough observation of the rate at which balls hit the wall between the two lines is then made. The bar is quickly removed, keeping the motion the same. Note that fewer balls hit the same section of wall in the same time, indicating that when the volume increased the pressure decreased.