9.

3 Molecular kinetic energy

 
Learning outcomes:
a.State and use the relationship between the
Boltzman constant and molar gas constant, k =
b.Derive and use the expression for the mean
translational kinetic energy of a molecule,
½ m = 3/2 kT
  m
 K.E for one mole

  m

K.E for one molecule

 Exercise

 
Estimate the mean translational kinetic energy of
Helium atoms at 300 k. Hence deduce the rms
speed of Helium atoms at 300 K.
(Mass of Helium atom = 6.6 x g).
What would be the rms speed of Helium atoms at
400 K?

 Answer: 1.37 x /s , 1.58 x /s

 Solution :
 
Mean translational kinetic energy = 3/2 k T
= 3/2 (1.38 x )(300)
= 6.21 x J
½ m<> = 6.21 x J
rms speed, = = 1.37 x m/s
rms speed,
rms speed at 400 K = (1.37 x )
= 1.58 x m/s