# Problem: Which of the following gases will have the smallest root mean square speed at 100°C?(A) H2O (B) CH4(C) N2(D) O2(E) Ar

###### FREE Expert Solution

We’re being asked to determine the gas that would have the smallest root mean square speed at 100°C.

When calculating for root mean square speed (μrms), we will use the following equation:

$\overline{){{\mathbf{\mu }}}_{{\mathbf{rms}}}{\mathbf{=}}\sqrt{\frac{\mathbf{3}\mathbf{RT}}{\mathbf{M}}}}$

µrms = rms speed,
R = 8.314 J/(mol·K)
T = temperature, K
M = molar mass, kg/mol

###### Problem Details

Which of the following gases will have the smallest root mean square speed at 100°C?

(A) H2

(B) CH4

(C) N2

(D) O2

(E) Ar

What scientific concept do you need to know in order to solve this problem?

Our tutors have indicated that to solve this problem you will need to apply the Root Mean Square Speed concept. You can view video lessons to learn Root Mean Square Speed. Or if you need more Root Mean Square Speed practice, you can also practice Root Mean Square Speed practice problems.