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In outer space the density of matter is extremely low, about one atom per cm3. The matter is mainly hydrogen atoms (m = 1.67 × 10-27 kg) whose rms speed is 260 m/s. A cubical box, 2.0 m on a side, is placed in outer space, and the hydrogen atoms are allowed to enter. Concepts: (i) Why do hydrogen atoms exert a force on the wall of the box? (ii) Do the atoms generate a pressure on the walls of the box? (iii) Do hydrogen atoms in outer space have a temperature? If so, how is the temperature related to the microscopic properties of the atoms? Calculations: (a) What is the magnitude of the force that the atoms exert on one wall of the box? (b) Determine the pressure that the atoms exert. (c) Does outer space have a temperature and, if so, what is it? |
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