Answer: higher.
- A higher
- B lower
- C identical
- D zero
Correct answer: A. higher
Explanation: Since v<sub>rms</sub> ∝ 1/√M, lighter molecules move faster at the same temperature.
Not all gas molecules move at the same speed - the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution shows the spread, with the most probable speed vp slightly less than the average vavg, which is slightly less than the root-mean-square speed vrms used in the pressure formula.
Concept context
Kinetic theory of gases connects molecular motion to pressure and temperature, explaining gas laws, specific heats, and molecular speeds.