Uso de simulações virtuais como recurso didático para o ensino e aprendizado de teoria dos gases ideais no ensino médio

Abstract

This study investigates the use of virtual simulations as a didactic resource for teaching and learning the Ideal Gas Theory in secondary education. Given the common challenges in physics education in Brazil, such as limited infrastructure, traditional teaching methodologies, and a scarcity of practical laboratory activities. An alternative approach leveraging digital technologies is proposed. A computer-based simulator was developed to enable interactive manipulation of the state variables of an ideal gas (pressure, volume, temperature, and number of particles), visually illustrating their relationships according to the ideal gas law. The research, quali-quantitative in nature, was conducted with a group of 2nd-year high school students in Regeneração, Piauí. Questionnaires were administered before and after the use of the software, alongside an assessment of students’ perceptions regarding the tool. Results indicate an improvement in students’ conceptual understanding, particularly in questions related to kinetic energy and the dependence of pressure on temperature and volume. Furthermore, most students expressed a positive attitude toward the simulation, suggesting its potential as a complementary teaching resource for thermodynamic concepts. Despite limitations related to sample size and scope, the findings underscore the pedagogical value of virtual environments when intentionally integrated into teaching practice