I have a question regarding temperature and the kinetic energy of molecules

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the relationship between temperature and kinetic energy, establishing that temperature is a measure of the internal energy of an object, while kinetic energy refers to the motion of its particles. It emphasizes that temperature and kinetic energy are distinct concepts, with temperature reflecting the average kinetic energy of particles in random motion. The conversation also highlights the complexity of thermodynamics, particularly in systems like steam engines, where microscopic and macroscopic behaviors intersect.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamics principles
  • Familiarity with kinetic energy and temperature concepts
  • Knowledge of molecular motion and particle dynamics
  • Basic grasp of heat engines and their operation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the laws of thermodynamics and their applications
  • Explore the concept of thermal energy and its measurement
  • Learn about the kinetic theory of gases and its implications
  • Investigate the functioning of heat engines, including steam engines and turbines
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, engineers working with thermodynamic systems, and anyone interested in the principles of heat and energy transfer will benefit from this discussion.

seonjunyoo
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Does the high temperature increase the kinetic energy of molecules or atoms, or does the high kinetic energy of atoms or molecules increase the temperature ?

I'm so curious about this. Which concept is more accurate between the two
 
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A drop of liquid helium flying through intergalactic space at 0.6 c has a lot of KE, but has low temperature.
 
seonjunyoo said:
Does the high temperature increase the kinetic energy of molecules or atoms, or does the high kinetic energy of atoms or molecules increase the temperature ?

I'm so curious about this. Which concept is more accurate between the two
Temperature and kinetic energy are not actually the same thing. The thermal energy of an object relates to the random, internal motions in the object. The particles will have a range of velocities about a mean velocity (which is the velocity of the Centre of Mass of the object) it's the relative velocities of the particles which tells you that proportion of the kinetic energy corresponding to temperature. The velocity of the CM of the object accounts for the (translational) kinetic energy of the whole thing.

In the case of moving hot gases, it may not be obvious where one begins and the other ends - which is what the thermodynamics of steam engines and turbines is about: where microscoic and macroscopic ideas come together. Heat engines start with molecular motion and deliver macroscopic motion. Your original question needs modification to take this into account.
 

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