The kinetic energy (KE) of gas molecules is defined by the equation KE = (3/2)KbT, where Kb is the Boltzmann constant and T is the temperature in Kelvin. This equation applies to individual gas molecules. In contrast, the internal energy (U) of an ideal gas is expressed as U = (3/2)nRT, where n is the number of moles and R is the universal gas constant. The variable n is not eliminated in the internal energy equation because it represents the number of moles, which is essential for calculating the total energy of the gas system. The relationship between the constants Kb, R, and Avogadro's number (NA) is crucial for understanding these equations, as Kb = R/NA.
PREREQUISITESStudents and professionals in physics, chemistry, and engineering fields who are studying thermodynamics and the behavior of gases will benefit from this discussion.