Try it on paper first. A hint, the key idea and the worked solution are here when you need them.
Helium, , and nitrogen, , are at . Find the rms speed of each gas, the number of times that the helium atoms are faster than the nitrogen molecules, and the kinetic energy of one mole of each gas. Use .
For an ideal gas, . For one mole, with in kg/mol. The average kinetic energy of one molecule is and of one mole , for every gas. At the same temperature, .
Have you tried it?
Work it out on paper first. It is fine to get stuck or make a mistake: that is how we learn. When you are ready, go through the solution one step at a time, and check each step against your own.
Given. , , .
Step 1. Helium. .
Step 2. Nitrogen. .
Step 3. The ratio. . It also equals , as the formula says.
Step 4. The kinetic energy. . It is the same for both gases.
Check. The helium atoms are lighter, so they are faster. Both gases carry the same energy.
Answer: for helium and for nitrogen. Helium is times faster. A mole of either gas has of kinetic energy.
Log in to join the discussion.
Loading…