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Question: Answered & Verified by Expert
The molecular motion ceases at
PhysicsKinetic Theory of GasesAP EAMCETAP EAMCET 2020 (22 Sep Shift 2)
Options:
  • A $273 \mathrm{~K}$
  • B $273^{\circ} \mathrm{C}$
  • C $-273 \mathrm{~K}$
  • D $-273^{\circ} \mathrm{C}$
Solution:
1648 Upvotes Verified Answer
The correct answer is: $-273^{\circ} \mathrm{C}$
According to kinetic theory of gases, average kinetic energy of gas molecules is
$$
K=\frac{3}{2} R T
$$
i.e. $\quad K \propto T$

We know that, kinetic energy may not be negative. Its minimum value may be equal to zero.
Hence, minimum possible temperature on the earth is equal to $0 \mathrm{~K}$ at which molecular motion starts ceasing.
$\therefore$ Minimum possible temperature
$$
=0 \mathrm{~K}=(0-273)^{\circ} \mathrm{C}=-273^{\circ} \mathrm{C}
$$

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