The relationship between the motion of atoms and molecules in a gas and temperature is quite straightforward. Temperature is essentially a measure of the average kinetic energy of the gas molecules. As temperature increases, the kinetic energy of the molecules also increases, meaning they move faster. Conversely, as temperature decreases, the kinetic energy diminishes, and the molecules move more slowly.
So, to summarize:
- a. As temperature decreases, the molecules and atoms move slower.
- b. As temperature increases, the atoms and molecules move faster.
This relationship can be observed in everyday experiences; for instance, when you heat a gas, like air in a balloon, the balloon expands. This happens because the molecules are moving more rapidly, colliding with the walls of the balloon with greater force.