Kinetic theory statement: kinetic energy at absolute zero Evaluate the statement: “The kinetic energy of gas molecules becomes zero at absolute zero temperature (0 K).” Choose the correct option.
Mechanical Engineering
Thermodynamics
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
-
ATrue
-
BFalse
Answer
Correct Answer: True
Explanation
ConceptFor an ideal gas, the average translational kinetic energy per molecule is (3/2) k T. At T = 0 K, this expression gives zero kinetic energy.
NoteQuantum zero-point energy exists in real systems, but the ideal-gas kinetic theory model used in basic thermodynamics treats the average kinetic energy as proportional to T.
Final AnswerTrue