Skip to main content
Ch.5 - Gases
Chapter 5, Problem 83b

Calculate the kinetic energy of F2, Cl2, and Br2 at 298 K.

Verified Solution

Video duration:
4m
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Kinetic Energy

Kinetic energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion. In the context of gases, it is directly related to the temperature of the gas, as higher temperatures correspond to greater molecular speeds. The formula for kinetic energy (KE) is KE = 1/2 mv², where m is the mass and v is the velocity of the particles.
Recommended video:
Guided course
00:34
Kinetic & Potential Energy

Temperature and Molecular Motion

Temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of the particles in a substance. At 298 K (approximately 25°C), the molecules of gases like F₂, Cl₂, and Br₂ are in constant motion, and their kinetic energy can be calculated using the ideal gas law and the principles of statistical mechanics, which relate temperature to molecular speed.
Recommended video:
Guided course
03:48
Temperature vs Heat

Molar Mass and Gas Properties

The molar mass of a gas affects its kinetic energy and behavior under various conditions. For diatomic molecules like F₂, Cl₂, and Br₂, the molar mass is crucial for calculating their kinetic energy at a given temperature. The heavier the molecule, the lower its average speed at the same temperature, which influences its kinetic energy.
Recommended video:
Guided course
00:51
The Ideal Gas Law: Molar Mass