Setup

In Session 2, one of the macroscopic behaviors of matter that we looked at as a reason for preferring the particle model to the continuous model was the compressibility of gases. In the Science Studio, we saw that Joana could push the plunger of a closed, air-filled syringe, which indicated that its volume was not constant. Similarly, we saw that David could not do the same with a water-filled syringe, which indicated that its volume is constant. In this lab, you’ll experiment with a realistic model of air and water to better connect the particle model to your intuitive understanding of the real world.

Next: Exploring the Model: Air