What is the temperature of a gas in which the atoms are moving very rapidly?

• A. Low temperature
• B. Room temperature
• C. High temperature
• D. Absolute zero

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the relationship between temperature and the kinetic energy of gas particles. Temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of the atoms or molecules in a substance.
2. Recall that when atoms or molecules move very rapidly, their kinetic energy is high. Since temperature is directly proportional to the average kinetic energy, rapid movement corresponds to a higher temperature.
3. Recognize that low temperature means particles move slowly, and absolute zero is the theoretical temperature where particles have minimal motion (zero kinetic energy).
4. Room temperature is a moderate temperature where particles have moderate kinetic energy and speed.
5. Therefore, if atoms are moving very rapidly, the gas must be at a high temperature because high temperature means high average kinetic energy and faster particle motion.