Question

Can we say that molecular speed of atmospheric gas is less than 11.2 km/s​

Answer 1

Yes, we can say that molecular speed of atmospheric gases is lesser than 11.2 km/sec.

But why ??

• Calculations for escape velocity from earth give the value of 11.2 km/sec.

• That means that any object which can move at a velocity greater than 11.2 km/sec will be able to overcome Earth's Gravitational force.

• However, the gases have lesser speed than 11.2 km/sec. This is evident from the fact that earth has a layer of atmosphere (consisting of these gas).

• If the speed had been greater, then we wouldn't have an atmosphere above us (because the gases would have escaped from the Earth's Gravitational Field).

$\star$ Hope It Helps.