The rms speed of oxygen molecules is 482 m/s at 300 K. What is the rms speed of helium molecules at the same temperature
**Gas mixtures** ideal gas law applies to each component, P_total = Σ n_i R T/V, partial pressure P_i = n_i R T/V, mole tion X_i = n_i/n_total, P_i = X_i P_total, enabling calculation of individual pressures from composition, important for kinetic theory and chemistry. v_rms ∝ (1)/(√(m)), v_Hev_O₂ = √(m_O)₂m_He.v_He482 = √((32)/(4)) = √(8) ≈ 2.828.v_He = 482 × 2.828 ≈ 1363 m/s. Substituting values gives 1363 m/s, which matches expected kinetic theory result, confirming mean free path λ = 1/(√2 n π d²), ideal gas law P V = n R T and v_rms = √(3 R T/M) relations.
Ref: NCERT > Physics Book > Behaviour of Perfect Gas and Kinetic Theory > Partial Pressures and Gas Mixtures