Absolute Zero Temperature and Energy – Rankers Physics

Kinetic Theory of Gases: Practice Problem & Solution

Assertion (A): Absolute zero temperature is not the zero energy temperature. Reason (R): At absolute zero temperature the gas may possess potential energy.  
(1) Both (A) & (R) are true and the (R) is the correct explanation of the (A)
(2) Both (A) & (R) are true but the (R) is not the correct explanation of the (A)
(3) (A) is true but (R) is false
(4) Both (A) and (R) are false

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Kinetic Theory of Gases. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

Concept: Absolute zero and molecular energy. At absolute zero 0 K, the average kinetic energy of molecules is at its minimum (or zero for an ideal gas classically). However, molecules can still possess potential energy due to intermolecular forces or external fields. Hence, total energy is not necessarily zero. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) correctly explains (A).

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *