Chapter 1, Problem 13A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation :

A natural law must be explained with examples. The difference in law and theory must be explained.

Concept Introduction :

A law is a rule which can be verified practically whereas a theory can be proved mathematically.

Answer to Problem 13A

A natural law is principle which can be verified with experiments. For examples Boyle’s law, Charles’ law is some natural laws.

A theory can’t be proved practically.

Explanation of Solution

Boyle’s law states that at constant temperature volume of a gas with definite mass is inversely proportional to the applied pressure. This can be proved practically. If at a constant temperature some amount of gas has volume V L at 1 atm pressure then the volume will be 0.5 L when pressure will be increased to 2 atm.

Avogadro’s hypothesis is a theory which states that at same temperature and pressure equal volume of all gases contains equal number of molecules. But the number of molecules can’t be counted practically.