At the same temperature, which move with the greater speed in the air?
A) heavier molecules
B) very light molecules
C) All will have equal average speeds.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Very light molecules move with greater speed at the same temperature compared to heavier molecules due to their lower mass. According to the kinetic theory of gases, the average kinetic energy of gas molecules is proportional to the temperature, and since kinetic energy is also related to mass and velocity, lighter molecules will have higher velocities to maintain the same kinetic energy as heavier molecules at the same temperature.

At the Same Temperature, Which Move with the Greater Speed