University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 42 - Molecules and Condensed Matter - Problems - Discussion Questions - Page 1434: Q42.8

Answer

The spacing is larger between the vibrational energy levels than between the rotational energy levels.

Work Step by Step

In Figure 42.8, we can see that the spacing is larger between the vibrational energy levels than between the rotational energy levels. At room temperature, air molecules remain mostly in the n=0 state for vibrations, though there is sufficient thermal energy for them to reach excited rotational energy levels.
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