Diffusion Flashcards
Diffusion
It is the net movement of particles from a high to low concentration. It does not require energy as it moves down the concentration gradient.
Concentration gradient
The greater the concentration gradient the faster the rate of diffusion.
Shape and Size
Smaller molecules will diffuse quicker than larger molecules. Therefore the smaller the molecules the quicker the diffusion rate.
Surface Area
when diffusion takes place through a semi - permeable membrane, such as a cell membrane, the greater the surface area of the membrane, the faster the rate of diffusion of the molecules through the membrane.
Distance
If the distance is small the diffusion rate happens faster because the particles do not have as far to travel.
Temperature
The higher the temperature, the more kinetic energy the particles will have, so they will move and mix more quickly, causing the diffusion rate to be faster.
Kinetic theory
It explains the properties of different states of matter. It also explains diffusion.
Property of solid
Fixed shape
Cannot flow
Cannot be compressed or squashed.
Property of liquid
It takes the shape of the container
They flow and move randomly
Cannot be compressed or squashed.
Property of Gas
Completely fills the container
They flow and move randomly
Can be compressed or squashed.
Arrangement/Movement of particles in a Solid
They are very close together and consist of a regular pattern. Their movement in a solid is that they vibrate in a fixed position.
Arrangement/Movement of particles in a Liquid
Liquid particles are quite close together, there particles are randomly arranged. The particles move/rotate around each other.
Arrangement/Movement of particles in a Gas
Gas particles are far apart and they are randomly placed. The particles move quickly in any direction.
where can Diffusion happen
Gases and liquids can flow. They move randomly. This allows diffusion in gases and liquids but not in solids. Gases move more quickly than in liquids so diffusion occurs faster in gases than in liquids. Diffusion can happen within a mixture of liquids, mixture of gases and mixtures of liquids and gases.
