College Physics (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32160-183-1
ISBN 13: 978-0-32160-183-4

Chapter 10 - Temperature and Kinetic Theory - Learning Path Questions and Exercises - Conceptual Questions - Page 381: 5

Answer

Monatomic molecules behave like point masses so they can have only translational kinetic energy. Moreover, in addition to translational kinetic energy, diatomic molecules can have rotational and vibrational kinetic energy since this type of molecule can rotate and the atoms may also vibrate.

Work Step by Step

Monatomic molecules behave like point masses so they can have only translational kinetic energy. Moreover, in addition to translational kinetic energy, diatomic molecules can have rotational and vibrational kinetic energy since this type of molecule can rotate and the atoms may also vibrate.
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