Question

the two gas samples represented in the graph above are at the same temperature. which of the following statements about the gases is correct?
a the molecules of gas z have a higher average kinetic energy than the molecules of gas x.
b there are fewer molecules in the sample of gas z than in the sample of gas x.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall kinetic - energy formula

The average kinetic energy of gas molecules is given by $\overline{K.E.}=\frac{3}{2}kT$, where $k$ is the Boltzmann constant and $T$ is the temperature.

Step2: Analyze given condition

Since the two gas samples are at the same temperature, their average kinetic energies are equal. So, option A is incorrect. The graph shows the distribution of molecular speeds, not the number of molecules. There is no information in the graph or the problem - statement to compare the number of molecules in gas X and gas Z.

Answer:

None of the provided options (A and B) are correct based on the given information.