Ideal Gas Simulator

Based on the research of Kautz (2005) and Loverude (2002), early introduction of the microscopic models leads to, and reinforces alternative conceptions about the ideal gas law. This may subsequently lead to learning difficulties in understanding the First Law of Thermodynamics, as well as give students incorrect perceptions of the Nature of Science.

This macroscopic-only simulator aims to allow students to experiment on an ideal gas in a water bath, which allows them to build a firmer understanding of the macroscopic behaviour of the ideal gas laws.