Which molecule moves with the fastest average speed while being bound in the Earth's atmosphere in thermal equilibrium? A) Water, H₂O (atomic mass =18) B) Carbon dioxide, CO₂ (atomic mass = 44) C) Nitrogen (atomic mass = 28) D) Oxygen (atomic mass = 32) E) Hydrogen, H₂ (atomic mass= 2)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The average speed of a molecule is determined by its mass and the temperature of the surrounding environment (as per the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution). Since hydrogen has the lowest atomic mass among the given options, it will have the fastest average speed in the Earth's atmosphere in thermal equilibrium. Therefore, choice E is the correct answer.

Which Molecule Moves with the Fastest Average Speed While Being