Calculate the root mean square velocity and kinetic energy of CO, CO₂, and SO₃ at 298 K. Which gas has the greatest velocity? The greatest kinetic energy? The greatest effusion rate?

Key Concepts

Root Mean Square Velocity

Root mean square (RMS) velocity is a measure of the average speed of gas molecules in a sample. It is calculated using the formula v_rms = sqrt(3RT/M), where R is the ideal gas constant, T is the temperature in Kelvin, and M is the molar mass of the gas in kg/mol. This concept is crucial for comparing the velocities of different gases at the same temperature.

Kinetic Energy of Gases

The kinetic energy of a gas is related to the motion of its molecules and is given by the formula KE = (1/2)mv^2, where m is the mass of the molecule and v is its velocity. For an ideal gas, the average kinetic energy can also be expressed as KE_avg = (3/2)RT. Understanding this concept helps in determining which gas has the greatest kinetic energy at a given temperature.

Graham's Law of Effusion

Graham's Law states that the rate of effusion of a gas is inversely proportional to the square root of its molar mass. This means lighter gases effuse faster than heavier gases. This principle is essential for determining which gas will effuse more quickly under the same conditions, allowing for comparisons between CO, CO2, and SO3.