Conceptual Physics (12th Edition)

Published by Addison-Wesley
ISBN 10: 0321909100
ISBN 13: 978-0-32190-910-7

Chapter 16 - Think and Explain - Page 317-318: 56

Answer

On average, hydrogen molecules move faster than oxygen molecules at the same temperature.

Work Step by Step

Having the same temperature means they have the same average translational kinetic energy per molecule. $KE = \frac{1}{2} mv^{2}$. The mass m of a hydrogen molecule is much less than that of an oxygen molecule, so the speed v must be greater to have the same average kinetic energy.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.