What is random motion?
Quick Answer
Random motion, also known as Brownian motion, is the chaotic, haphazard movement of atoms and molecules. Random motion is a quality of liquid and especially gas molecules as described by the kinetic theory. The botanist Robert Brown first noticed this phenomenon in 1827, and Albert Einstein later continued Brown’s study of the movement of water and pollen molecules. His theory helped to definitively prove the existence of atoms.
Continue Reading
Full Answer
Liquid and gas molecules, unlike solids, do not remain in a fixed position. Solids have the least amount of energy of the three states of matter, and thus, their molecules only vibrate slightly. The molecules in liquids have more energy and move around each other in random order. Gases have the most kinetic energy; their molecules are arranged far apart and move speedily in all directions, occasionally even bouncing off of each other. This difference in motion between solids and liquids and gases is best illustrated by putting the molecules in a sealed container. A solid does not change shape, but a liquid flows to assume the shape of the container. Because the molecules of a gas are in constant random motion, the gas spreads out to the very edge of the container and completely fills it.
Learn more about Motion & MechanicsRelated Questions
-
Q:
Why does air exert pressure?
A: Air exerts pressure because its molecules are in constant motion; they impact against objects they encounter and exert a pushing force against them. The fo... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is the definition of "translational motion"?
A: Translational motion is the movement of an object from one point to another through space. An example of this is a bullet fired from a rifle. Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How does a perpetual motion watch work?
A: A perpetual, or self-winding, watch keeps itself wound using a component called a rotor which is moved by gravity when the arm swings or moves and is conne... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is the definition of oscillating motion?
A: Oscillating is the process of swinging or moving to and fro in a steady, uninterrupted manner, and oscillating motion is the movement created by the proces... Full Answer >Filed Under:
You May Also Like
-
Q:
What are the main branches of mechanics?
-
Q:
What are Newton's Three laws?
-
Q:
What does momentum mean?
-
Q:
Why does fluid move against gravity in an osmometer?
-
Q:
What is the force pushing on a surface divided by the area of that surface?
-
Q:
Why does a crumpled piece of paper fall faster than a smooth piece?
