What effect will the number of particles and temperature have on the rate of diffusion of gas molecules?

A.
The rate of diffusion decreases with the increase in number of particles and temperature.
B.
The rate of diffusion increases with the increase in number of particles and temperature.
C.
The rate of diffusion increases with the increase in number of particles and decrease in temperature.
D.
The rate of diffusion decreases if the number of particles and temperature are kept constant.
E.
The rate of diffusion increases if the number of particles and temperature are kept constant.

1 answer

The correct answer is B: The rate of diffusion increases with the increase in number of particles and temperature.

Here's why:

  1. Temperature: An increase in temperature typically increases the kinetic energy of gas molecules, causing them to move faster. This results in a higher rate of diffusion.

  2. Number of Particles: Increasing the number of particles can also enhance the rate of diffusion because it increases the concentration gradient. Gases will diffuse from an area of higher concentration (more particles) to an area of lower concentration, which can also lead to an increased rate of diffusion initially.

Therefore, both an increase in temperature and an increase in the number of particles generally lead to an increased rate of diffusion.