To calculate the kinetic energy and speed of particles at a given temperature, the average kinetic energy can be determined using the formula KE = (3/2)kT for ideal gases, where k is the Boltzmann constant and T is the temperature in Kelvin. While the average kinetic energy remains constant, the speed varies due to differences in mass among particles such as atoms, ions, and electrons. In solids, particularly metals, free electrons contribute to the overall kinetic energy, which can be approximated using the Drude model that treats them as a gas of free particles. Understanding the behavior of these electrons is crucial, as they exhibit different energy characteristics compared to heavier atomic constituents. Overall, the principles of kinetic energy apply across different states of matter, with specific calculations varying based on the particle type and state.
