Rank the following gases in order of their speed of diffusion through a membrane, and calculate

step 1 This question asks us first to rank the relative rate of diffusion of these three gases, and the

Rank the following gases in order of their speed of...

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Key Concepts

Molecular Mass Effect on Diffusion Rates

The molecular mass of a gas is a key factor affecting its diffusion rate. Since the rate of diffusion is inversely proportional to the square root of the molar mass, gases with lower molar mass will generally diffuse more rapidly compared to gases with higher molar mass. This relationship helps in predicting and comparing the behavior of different gases when diffusing through a membrane.

Calculating Diffusion Rate Ratios

To quantitatively compare the rates of diffusion among gases, one can apply Graham's Law by taking the ratio of the square roots of their respective molar masses. By computing these ratios, it becomes possible to rank the gases according to their diffusion speeds and determine the relative magnitudes of their diffusion rates. This method allows for both a qualitative and quantitative comparison of gas behaviors in diffusion scenarios.

Graham's Law of Diffusion

This principle states that the rate of diffusion (or effusion) of a gas is inversely proportional to the square root of its molar mass. It explains that lighter gases diffuse faster than heavier ones, all else being equal, as the speed is linked to the average kinetic energy of the particles which depends inversely on the square root of their masses.

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