A mixture of chlorine, hydrogen, and oxygen gas is in a container at STP. Which curve represents oxygen gas? (LO 10.8) (a) Curve (a) (b) Curve (b) (c) Curve (c)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the gases involved: chlorine (Cl2), hydrogen (H2), and oxygen (O2).
2. Recall that the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution curve shows the distribution of speeds of gas molecules at a given temperature.
3. Understand that lighter gases have higher average speeds and thus their distribution curves peak at higher speeds.
4. Compare the molar masses of the gases: H2 (2 g/mol), O2 (32 g/mol), and Cl2 (70.9 g/mol).
5. Determine that the curve with the highest peak (Curve A) corresponds to the lightest gas (H2), the curve with the lowest peak (Curve C) corresponds to the heaviest gas (Cl2), and the remaining curve (Curve B) represents O2.

Key Concepts

Maxwell-Boltzmann Distribution

The Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution describes the distribution of speeds of particles in a gas. It shows how the number of molecules varies with their speed at a given temperature. Each gas has a unique distribution curve based on its molecular mass, influencing the average speed and kinetic energy of the particles.

Molecular Mass and Speed

The speed of gas molecules is inversely related to their molecular mass at a constant temperature. Lighter gases, like hydrogen, will have higher average speeds compared to heavier gases, such as oxygen. This difference in speed affects the shape and position of their respective Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution curves.

Standard Temperature and Pressure (STP)

Standard Temperature and Pressure (STP) is defined as 0 degrees Celsius (273.15 K) and 1 atmosphere of pressure. At STP, gases behave ideally, and their properties can be compared more easily. Understanding STP is crucial for analyzing gas behavior and interpreting the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution curves in the context of the question.