SUMMARY
The average speed of helium (He) gas molecules can be calculated using the root mean square speed formula, Vrms = √(3RT/M). In this case, R is the ideal gas constant (8.31 J/mol·K), T is the temperature (241 K), and M is the molar mass of helium, which is derived from the mass of a single helium atom (6.65e-27 kg). The correct molar mass for helium is 4.00 g/mol (or 4.00e-3 kg/mol), leading to an average speed calculation that provides definitive insights into molecular motion under specified conditions.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of the ideal gas law and gas properties
- Familiarity with the concept of root mean square speed
- Knowledge of unit conversions (grams to kilograms)
- Basic thermodynamics principles related to temperature and pressure
NEXT STEPS
- Calculate the average speed of gas molecules using the correct molar mass of helium
- Explore the implications of molecular speed on gas behavior in different conditions
- Learn about the kinetic molecular theory of gases
- Investigate the relationship between temperature, pressure, and molecular speed in ideal gases
USEFUL FOR
Students studying physics or chemistry, educators teaching gas laws, and anyone interested in the behavior of gases under varying conditions.