Answer: (3/2)kT.
- A (3/2)kT
- B simply kT
- C (1/2)kT
- D fully 3kT
Correct answer: A. (3/2)kT
Explanation: Average translational KE per molecule = (3/2)kT.
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.