Velocity distribution curves general inquiry

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between molecular speed and molar mass, specifically referencing the equation speed = sqrt(3RT/M). Participants clarify that the average speed of gas molecules, such as nitrogen (N2), oxygen (O2), and argon (Ar), is influenced by their molar mass rather than their quantity. The conversation highlights that as the number of molecules increases, the average velocity decreases, but this does not alter the fundamental dependence on molar mass. The distinction between extensive and intensive properties is also noted as relevant to understanding these concepts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the ideal gas law and its variables
  • Familiarity with the concept of molar mass
  • Knowledge of extensive and intensive properties in thermodynamics
  • Basic grasp of kinetic molecular theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the ideal gas law and its applications in real-world scenarios
  • Explore kinetic molecular theory in detail
  • Research the implications of molar mass on gas behavior
  • Investigate the differences between extensive and intensive properties in physical chemistry
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Students in chemistry or physics, educators teaching gas laws, and researchers interested in molecular dynamics and thermodynamics.

mrjoe2
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for a graph that has the velocity as the x-axis and the number of molecules as the y axis, i know that as the number of molecules increases, the average velocity will become lower and lower, but what if the molecules being tested are in relative amounts?

for example you have air which is 78.08 percent N2, 20.95 percent O2 and .93 percent Ar by volume right. so is it just the number of molecules that determines the speed. so N2 would havethe slowest speed, then O2, then Ar.

HOWEVER, why does the equation speed = sqrt (3RT/M) depend on the MOLAR MASS of the molecule and not the number of molecules. my TA in u of t could not answer this question, i was hoping someone here could. thank you
 
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mrjoe2 said:
why does the equation speed = sqrt (3RT/M) depend on the MOLAR MASS of the molecule and not the number of molecules. my TA in u of t could not answer this question, i was hoping someone here could. thank you

Huh? Why does the speed of the car depend on its make, and not on the number of cars?

Do you know the difference between extensive and intensive properties?
 

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