The molecular motion ceases at

The molecular motion ceases at
  1. $273 \mathrm{~K}$
  2. $273^{\circ} \mathrm{C}$
  3. $-273 \mathrm{~K}$
  4. $-273^{\circ} \mathrm{C}$

Solution

According to kinetic theory of gases, average kinetic energy of gas molecules is $ K=\frac{3}{2} R T $ i.e. $\quad K \propto T$ We know that, kinetic energy may not be negative. Its minimum value may be equal to zero. Hence, minimum possible temperature on the earth is equal to $0 \mathrm{~K}$ at which molecular motion starts ceasing. $\therefore$ Minimum possible temperature $ =0 \mathrm{~K}=(0-273)^{\circ} \mathrm{C}=-273^{\circ} \mathrm{C} $

Asked in: AP EAMCET 2020 (22 Sep Shift 2)

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