[CHEM]kinetic molecular theory

[ippie]

"The average kinetic energy is proportional to the temperature (celcius) of the gas."
Is this statement right or wrong???

Of course, the average kinetic energy is directly proportional to the temperature (K) of the gas. However, C is proportional to K. Therefore, the average kinetic energy is not directly proportional but just proportional to the temperature (celcius) of the gas. That's why I think this statement is right, but Kaplan book says this statement is wrong. Can anybody help???

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[bigstix808]

"The average kinetic energy is proportional to the temperature (celcius) of the gas."
Is this statement right or wrong???

Of course, the average kinetic energy is directly proportional to the temperature (K) of the gas. However, C is proportional to K. Therefore, the average kinetic energy is not directly proportional but just proportional to the temperature (celcius) of the gas. That's why I think this statement is right, but Kaplan book says this statement is wrong. Can anybody help???

although the difference in KE from 1 K and 2 K is the same as from 1 C to 2 C, this proportion does not hold any signifigance in the the kinetic mol theory. why? - since the KMT stems from the combination of the ideal gas law (PV=nRT) and KE=1/2mv^2, you must use K and not degrees C. This is because of the ideal gas constant (R), having a K and not a C in its units. if you were to work out a calculation using the KMT and used C, you would not cancel out temp and would come up with a completly arbitrary number.

you were right in your logic though for what its worth.