RMS Speed (v_rms)Chemistry

Root-Mean-Square (RMS) Molecular Speed Calculator (v_rms)

Calculate root-mean-square speed (v_rms), mean velocity (v_avg), and most probable speed (v_mp) in m/s using Maxwell-Boltzmann kinetic molecular theory.

Calculated Result

Root-Mean-Square Speed (v_rms)

1km/h

Calculator Inputs

g/mol
Quick select:
Quick select:

Root-Mean-Square Speed (v_rms)

1km/h

Mean Velocity (v_avg)

1 km/h

Most Probable Speed (v_mp)

1 km/h

Speed in km/h

3.6 km/h

Exact Kinetic Correspondence: The three velocities map the dynamic kinetic spread of the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution.

Maxwell-Boltzmann Characteristic Velocities

Most Probable v_mp
1 m/s(33%)
Mean Speed v_avg
1 m/s(33%)
RMS Speed v_rms
1 m/s(33%)

Standard physical chemistry and kinetic molecular theory (KMT) velocity calculator.

Calculation Methodology

Root-Mean-Square Speed: v_rms = sqrt( 3 * R * T / M ). Mean Speed: v_avg = sqrt( 8 * R * T / (π * M) ). Most Probable Speed: v_mp = sqrt( 2 * R * T / M ). R = 8.314 J/(mol K); M in kg/mol.

Frequently Asked Questions

Because average molecular kinetic energy directly depends on velocity squared (1/2 m v^2); thus v_rms directly embodies the thermal kinetic temperature of the ensemble.

Related Calculators

Recommended tools and calculators tailored to your current calculation

Explore all tools