: Students are asked to describe the theoretical curve for particle speeds at absolute zero (
The most probable speed (( v_p )) is less than the average speed (( v_avg )), which is less than the root-mean-square speed (( v_rms )). Extension questions often ask to order these three on a graph. : Students are asked to describe the theoretical
The rms speed is given by:
a) has a larger fraction above (E_a).
is represented by a fixed point on the x-axis. At a higher temperature, a significantly larger fraction of the area under the curve lies to the right of the Eacap E sub a : Students are asked to describe the theoretical
Using the assumption of a uniform distribution of molecular velocities, the probability distribution of velocities can be written as: : Students are asked to describe the theoretical