Diffusion In Chemistry Flashcards
What is the definition of diffusion?
The spreading out of particles from an area of high concentration to low concentration
Define concentration
The number of particles of a substance in a given volume
What will happen by the end of diffusion?
The particles will eventually be evenly spread out throughout the full volume given
Why will diffusion happen faster with higher temperatures?
The increase in temperature provides more energy to the particles so they’ll spread out and move around quicker. They’ll also collide into the canister and themselves more often, but it’s okay because of net movement
Why can’t solids diffuse?
They have really packed together particles that can only vibrate not move, so they can’t do any spreading out so no diffusion. Solids also have a greater force of attraction between their particles so they want separate so easily.
Gases and liquids diffuse unlike solids. Explain why.
Gases and liquids have less restriction in terms of the space they have to move round and they both have weaker forces of attraction between their particles compared to solids so it’s easier for them to spread out
In terms of movement, gas will move faster than liquid. Why?
They are less packed together and have more room to move about. They have weaker forces of attraction between their particles so there’s less restriction for them. This means it can diffuse faster than liquid.
