Question:
The number of rotational degrees of freedom of a diatomic molecule
The number of rotational degrees of freedom of a diatomic molecule
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Monoatomic gases have no rotational degrees of freedom, while diatomic molecules generally have \(2\) rotational degrees of freedom at ordinary temperatures.
Updated On: Jun 22, 2026
- \(0\)
- \(1\)
- \(2\)
- \(3\)
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The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understand rotational degrees of freedom.
Rotational degrees of freedom correspond to the number of independent axes about which a molecule can rotate and possess rotational kinetic energy.
Step 2: Analyze the diatomic molecule.
A diatomic molecule consists of two atoms connected by a bond.
It can rotate about two axes perpendicular to the line joining the atoms.
Rotation about the axis along the bond is neglected because the moment of inertia about this axis is extremely small.
Therefore, a diatomic molecule has: \[ 2 \] rotational degrees of freedom.
Step 3: Final conclusion.
Hence, the number of rotational degrees of freedom of a diatomic molecule is \[ \boxed{2} \]
Rotational degrees of freedom correspond to the number of independent axes about which a molecule can rotate and possess rotational kinetic energy.
Step 2: Analyze the diatomic molecule.
A diatomic molecule consists of two atoms connected by a bond.
It can rotate about two axes perpendicular to the line joining the atoms.
Rotation about the axis along the bond is neglected because the moment of inertia about this axis is extremely small.
Therefore, a diatomic molecule has: \[ 2 \] rotational degrees of freedom.
Step 3: Final conclusion.
Hence, the number of rotational degrees of freedom of a diatomic molecule is \[ \boxed{2} \]
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