A container holds oxygen and helium gases at the same temperature. Which one of the following statements is correct?
A) the oxygen molecules have the greater kinetic energy
B) the helium molecules have the greater kinetic energy
C) the oxygen molecules have the greater speed
D) the helium molecules have the greater speed

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The speed of a gas molecule is directly proportional to the square root of its molecular weight. Helium has a smaller molecular weight compared to oxygen, which means it will have a higher average speed at the same temperature. Therefore, the helium molecules have the greater speed.

A Container Holds Oxygen and Helium Gases at the Same