Step 1: Concept
The kinetic theory of gases explains the behavior of gases in terms of the motion of their constituent particles. According to this theory, the temperature of a gas is related to the average kinetic energy of its molecules.
Step 2: Meaning
Absolute temperature refers to the temperature measured on an absolute scale such as Kelvin. The relationship between absolute temperature and other properties of gases can be understood through the kinetic theory.
Step 3: Analysis
According to the kinetic theory, the average kinetic energy (\(\overline{E_k}\)) of gas molecules is directly proportional to the absolute temperature (T) of the gas. This relationship can be expressed as:
\[\overline{E_k} \propto T\]
This means that if the temperature of a gas increases, the average kinetic energy of its molecules also increases.
Let's analyze each option:
A) Average kinetic energy of molecules: This is directly proportional to the absolute temperature. As the temperature rises, so does the average kinetic energy due to increased molecular motion and collisions.
B) Average velocity of molecules: While the average velocity of gas molecules is related to their kinetic energy, it is not as straightforwardly proportional to temperature as the kinetic energy itself. The relationship involves factors like mass and can be more complex.
C) Average potential energy of molecules: Potential energy in gases is typically negligible compared to kinetic energy at typical temperatures and pressures. Therefore, changes in average potential energy do not directly correlate with changes in absolute temperature.
D) Volume of the gas: The volume of a gas does not have a direct proportional relationship with its absolute temperature unless under specific conditions such as constant pressure (Charles's Law). Generally, volume is related to temperature only when other variables are controlled.
Step 4: Conclusion
The correct answer is A because the average kinetic energy of molecules in a gas is directly proportional to the absolute temperature according to the kinetic theory of gases.
Final Answer: (A)