Diffusion of Different Gases/Particles through Air

[greeniguana00]

If something like oxygen were to be released into a room, it would diffuse much faster than something like a heavy smoke. Has someone ever measured the rate of diffusion of different gases and particles? A quick Google search turned up nothing.

I'd like to know the distribution of how many particles of something are at each distance away from the release point after a certain amount of time. If the particles did not collide with the air molecules, then the rate of diffusion would be equal to if a vacuum were around them, so when you opened your door, almost all the air would be replaced by air from outside every second. But the air slows this process down, and it'd be interesting to know by how much.

If something like this hasn't been tested, isotopes of elements could be used, and then the concentration could be tested.

Another related question: how far, on average, does a particle of a certain volume traveling at a certain speed in a straight line get through air get before it hits something?

 

[AndyW]

I can provide some information on the rate of diffusion of different gases and particles. Diffusion is the process by which particles move from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration until they are evenly distributed. This process is influenced by factors such as temperature, pressure, and the properties of the particles themselves.

In terms of gases, the rate of diffusion is directly proportional to their molecular weight. This means that lighter gases, such as oxygen, will diffuse faster than heavier gases, such as smoke. This is because lighter gases have a higher average speed and can move more quickly through the air.

There have been numerous studies on the rate of diffusion of different gases and particles. One well-known experiment is Graham's Law of Diffusion, which states that the rate of diffusion of a gas is inversely proportional to the square root of its molecular weight. This means that the lighter the gas, the faster it will diffuse.

In terms of particles, the rate of diffusion is also influenced by their size and shape. Smaller particles will diffuse faster than larger particles, and spherical particles will diffuse faster than irregularly shaped particles.

To answer your question about the distribution of particles at different distances from the release point, there have been studies that have looked at this. One method is to use a diffusion chamber, which allows for the measurement of the concentration of particles at different distances from the release point over time.

Regarding your question about the average distance a particle travels before colliding with another particle, this is known as the mean free path and can be calculated using the kinetic theory of gases. It is dependent on factors such as temperature, pressure, and the size and shape of the particles.

In conclusion, there have been numerous studies on the rate of diffusion of different gases and particles, and the information you are looking for is available. I would suggest looking into scientific articles and studies on this topic for more specific information. Additionally, experiments using isotopes of elements can also provide valuable information on the rate of diffusion.

 

[sir-pinski]

The rate of diffusion of different gases and particles has been extensively studied and measured in various scientific experiments. However, the exact distribution of particles at different distances from the release point may vary depending on factors such as temperature, pressure, and the specific properties of the gas or particle being released.

One method of measuring the rate of diffusion is through the use of a diffusion cell, which is a device that allows for controlled release of a gas or particle and measures its diffusion over time. This technique has been used in various studies, such as the diffusion of gases through polymers or the diffusion of nanoparticles in liquids.

In terms of the distribution of particles at different distances, this can also be measured using various techniques such as laser scattering or particle tracking. However, as you mentioned, the presence of air molecules and their collisions with the released particles can affect the diffusion process and make it more complex to accurately measure the distribution.

Using isotopes of elements is a valid approach for studying diffusion, as it allows for tracking and distinguishing between different particles. However, the use of isotopes may not always be necessary as there are other techniques available for measuring diffusion.

In regards to the related question about the distance a particle can travel before colliding with something, this is dependent on various factors such as the size and speed of the particle, as well as the density and composition of the surrounding air. Studies have been conducted to measure the mean free path of particles in air, which is the average distance a particle can travel before colliding with another particle.

In conclusion, while there is a wealth of research and data on the diffusion of different gases and particles through air, the exact distribution of particles at different distances may vary and may be more difficult to accurately measure. However, techniques such as diffusion cells and laser scattering can provide valuable insights into the rate and behavior of diffusion in different scenarios.