Root mean square velocity of CO2 molecules

In summary, we are given the translational speed of water vapor molecules in air and are asked to find the translational rms speed of carbon dioxide molecules in the same air at the same temperature. Using the equation V^2 = (3kT)/m, we can deduce that the V2/m for both molecules must be the same.
  • #1
Plasma
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Homework Statement



If the translationa speed of the water vapor molecules (H2O) in ir is 648 m/s, what is the translational rms speed of the carbon dioxide molecules in the same air? Both gases are at the same tmperature.

Homework Equations



V^2 = (3kT)/m

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not even sure where to begin. I don't understand how knowing the water's speed helps me find the CO2's.
 
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  • #3
They must be the same.
 

What is the root mean square velocity of CO2 molecules?

The root mean square (RMS) velocity of CO2 molecules is the average velocity of all the molecules in a gas at a given temperature. It is calculated using the formula: RMS velocity = √(3RT/M), where R is the gas constant, T is the temperature in Kelvin, and M is the molar mass of the gas.

How does temperature affect the root mean square velocity of CO2 molecules?

According to the RMS velocity formula, as temperature increases, the RMS velocity of CO2 molecules also increases. This is because as temperature increases, the kinetic energy of the molecules also increases, causing them to move faster.

What is the significance of the root mean square velocity of CO2 molecules in atmospheric science?

The RMS velocity of CO2 molecules is significant in atmospheric science because it helps us understand the movement and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere. It is also used in the calculation of diffusion rates and in determining the rate of gas exchange between the atmosphere and the Earth's surface.

How does the molar mass of CO2 affect its root mean square velocity?

The RMS velocity of CO2 is inversely proportional to its molar mass. This means that as the molar mass of CO2 increases, the RMS velocity decreases. This is because heavier molecules have lower velocities compared to lighter molecules at the same temperature.

Can the root mean square velocity of CO2 molecules be measured experimentally?

Yes, the RMS velocity of CO2 molecules can be measured experimentally using various techniques such as gas diffusion, effusion, and velocity correlation methods. These methods involve measuring the average velocity of a large number of CO2 molecules and using statistical analysis to calculate the RMS velocity.

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