Problem 29.32 The average translational kinetic energy of an atom or molecule is

Question

Problem 29.32 The average translational kinetic energy of an atom or molecule is about KE¯¯¯¯¯=32kT, where k=1.38×1023J/K is Boltzmann's constant. Part A At what temperature T will KE¯¯¯¯¯ be on the order of the bond energy (and hence the bond likely to be broken by thermal motion) for a covalent bond of binding energy 4.5 eV (say H2)? Express your answer using two significant figures. T= K? Part B At what temperature T will KE¯¯¯¯¯ be on the order of the bond energy (and hence the bond likely to be broken by thermal motion) for a "weak" hydrogen bond of binding energy 0.15 eV? Express your answer using two significant figures. T= K?

Explanation / Answer

1eV = 1.6*10-19 J

1) 32kT = 4.5*1.6*10-19

T = 1630.5 K

2) 32kT = 1.5*1.6*10-19

T = 543.5 K

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