15: Exam Questions

Question 1

Explain why the number of molecules N at temp. T is approximated by N (proportional) e⁻ᵉᵏᵗ

Answer 1

e⁻ᵉᵏᵗ is Boltzmann factor

2) BF is the chance / probability of particles in liquid getting extra energy
3) through (random) collisions with other particles (and be able to leave the liquid)

Question 2

The Rate of evaporation R = C*e⁻ᵉᵏᵗ. Explain how the Boltzmann factor can be used to explain this equation

Answer 2

1) BF is probability that a molecule / fraction of molecules; 2) can gain enough energy to leave pool / evaporate 3) through (random) collisions (with other molecules);