Avg. Kinetic Energy: Neon Ratio @ Diff. Temps

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the ratio of the average speed of neon atoms at different temperatures while maintaining the same pressure. Participants explore the relationship between kinetic energy, temperature, and molecular speed, referencing relevant equations and concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose using the equation KE = 3/2RT to derive the relationship between temperature and average speed.
  • Others mention the equation for root-mean-squared speed, v_mean = SQRT(8RT/[pi*M]), suggesting it may be more appropriate for this context.
  • One participant expresses confusion about the relationship between temperature and velocity, noting an inverse relationship and questioning how to apply Graham's law.
  • Another participant clarifies that Graham's law is not necessary for this calculation and provides a derivation for the speed ratio based on temperature.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct approach to solving the problem, with differing interpretations of the equations and their applicability. There remains uncertainty regarding the correct ratio of speeds and the appropriate use of kinetic energy equations.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the definitions of average speed versus root-mean-squared speed, and the participants have not fully reconciled their differing interpretations of the equations involved.

brake4country
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Homework Statement


What is the ratio of the average speed of an atom of neon to another atom of neon at twice the temperature but the same pressure?

Homework Equations


KE = 3/2 RT; v1/v2 = sqrt. m2/sqrt. m1

The Attempt at a Solution


I first used KE = 3/2RT and substituted 1 and 2 for T and set them equal to each other. I ended up with a ratio of 1:2. Why is the answer 1:1.4?
 
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brake4country said:

Homework Statement


What is the ratio of the average speed of an atom of neon to another atom of neon at twice the temperature but the same pressure?

Homework Equations


KE = 3/2 RT; v1/v2 = sqrt. m2/sqrt. m1

The Attempt at a Solution


I first used KE = 3/2RT and substituted 1 and 2 for T and set them equal to each other. I ended up with a ratio of 1:2. Why is the answer 1:1.4?

Note that you are using equations that are appropriate for root-mean-squared speed. I would take "average" to be "mean", in which case the equations are slightly different. The functional form is the same.

v_mean = SQRT(8*RT/[pi*M]) ==> v2/v1 = ?
 
Hi, I do not understand what you wrote. I am trying to understand this from a KE=3/2RT and KE=1/2mv^2 point of view. I see that when I set these equal to each other, temp. and velocity are inversely related. T = v^2, thus taking the sqrt. of the temp. I do not know how to use Graham's law for something like this.
 
brake4country said:
Hi, I do not understand what you wrote. I am trying to understand this from a KE=3/2RT and KE=1/2mv^2 point of view. I see that when I set these equal to each other, temp. and velocity are inversely related. T = v^2, thus taking the sqrt. of the temp. I do not know how to use Graham's law for something like this.

You don't need to use Graham's Law.

v_mean = SQRT(8RT/[pi*M])

For the same gas at two different temperatures:

v_2/v_1 = SQRT(8RT_2/(pi*M))/SQRT(8RT_1/(pi*M)) ==> All constants cancel top and bottom ==> v_2/v_1 = SQRT(?)

[Look at the difference between your answer and the book's answer]
 

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