Which statement best describes the relationship between temperature and the kinetic energy of particles according to the kinetic molecular theory?

• A. As temperature increases, the average kinetic energy of particles decreases.
• B. As temperature increases, the average kinetic energy of particles increases.
• C. Temperature and average kinetic energy of particles are unrelated.
• D. As temperature decreases, the average kinetic energy of particles remains constant.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the kinetic molecular theory, which explains the behavior of particles in matter, particularly how their motion relates to temperature.
2. Understand that temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of the particles in a substance.
3. Recognize that as temperature increases, particles move faster because their kinetic energy increases.
4. Express this relationship mathematically: the average kinetic energy (KE) of particles is directly proportional to the absolute temperature (T) in kelvins, given by the formula \(\text{KE}_{\text{avg}} \propto T\) or \(\text{KE}_{\text{avg}} = \frac{3}{2} k_B T\), where \(k_B\) is the Boltzmann constant.
5. Conclude that an increase in temperature results in an increase in the average kinetic energy of particles, which aligns with the correct statement in the problem.