Question

What is the average kinetic energy in joules of hydrogen atoms on the Sun's surface?

a) (1.50 X 10⁻21 J)
b) (2.05 X 10⁻21 J)
c) (3.18 X 10⁻21 J)
d) (4.62 X 10⁻21 J)

Answer 1

The average kinetic energy of hydrogen atoms on the Sun's surface can be calculated using the equation KE = (3/2) kT, where KE is the average kinetic energy, k is the Boltzmann constant, and T is the temperature in Kelvin.

Step-by-step explanation:

The average kinetic energy of hydrogen atoms on the Sun's surface can be calculated using the equation KE = (3/2) kT, where KE is the average kinetic energy, k is the Boltzmann constant (1.38 x 10-23 J/K), and T is the temperature in Kelvin. Since the surface temperature of the Sun is approximately 5500°C, we need to convert it to Kelvin. The conversion formula is K = °C + 273.15. Therefore, the surface temperature of the Sun in Kelvin is (5500 + 273.15) K = 5773.15 K.

Plugging in the values into the equation, KE = (3/2) x (1.38 x 10-23 J/K) x 5773.15 K = 1.50 x 10-21 J.

Therefore, the correct answer is option a) (1.50 x 10-21 J).