Find the mean translational kinetic energy of ideal hydrogen gas at 17 degrees Celsius.
Correct answer: D. 6 x 10^-21 J
- A. 6.21 x 10^-21 J
- B. 5 x 10^-21 J
- C. 6.21 x 10^-12 J
- D. 6 x 10^-21 J
Explanation
The mean translational kinetic energy of an ideal gas is calculated using the formula: K.E. = (3/2)kT, where k is Boltzmann's constant (approximately 1.38 x 10-23 J/K) and T is the absolute temperature in Kelvin. First, convert 17 degrees Celsius to Kelvin: T = 17 + 273.15 = 290.15 K. Plugging in the values:K.E. = (3/2)(1.38 x 10-23 J/K)(290.15 K) ≈ 6 x 10-21 J.This is the correct answer. The other options provide either significantly lower or higher values, indicating calculation errors or incorrect applications of the kinetic theory principles.
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