Diffusion Flashcards
Diffusion
What does dynamic equilibrium mean?
Dynamic equilibrium is when diffusion stops because the concentrations are matched,
The particles keep moving but overall concentration stays the same
What is diffusion?
The movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration
What factors affect the rate of diffusion?
Concentration gradient
Shape and size of molecules
Temperature
Distance
Surface area
How does the factor Concentration gradient work?
The rate of diffusion is faster if there is a bigger difference between the concentrations to begin with
How does the shape and size of molecules affect diffusion?
Some membranes may only allow certain shapes of molecules through
At the same temperature smaller molecules move faster so will diffuse faster
How does temperature affect the rate of diffusion?
At higher temperatures the molecules will move faster so faster diffusion
Heat energy is kinetic energy
How does distance affect diffusion?
If the molecules have to travel further than the rate of diffusion is slower
How does surface area affect diffusion?
If the surface area is larger the rate of diffusion is faster
