Actual Distance Between Atoms of an Ideal Gas

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SUMMARY

The average distance between particles in an ideal gas system is approximately 3 nm (30 angstroms) at standard temperature and pressure (STP), based on 1 mole of gas occupying about 22 liters. This spacing can be calculated using the Ideal Gas Law, which relates pressure, volume, and temperature. The mean free path calculator from HyperPhysics provides additional insights into average intermolecular spacing, confirming values for gases like nitrogen, which shows minimal deviation from ideal behavior under various conditions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Ideal Gas Law
  • Familiarity with molecular dimensions (e.g., molecular diameter of nitrogen)
  • Basic knowledge of standard temperature and pressure (STP) conditions
  • Ability to use online calculators for mean free path and intermolecular spacing
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Ideal Gas Law and its applications in different conditions
  • Explore the concept of mean free path in kinetic theory
  • Investigate the behavior of real gases versus ideal gases at various temperatures and pressures
  • Learn how to use the mean free path calculator effectively for different gases
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in physics and chemistry, particularly those studying gas behavior, molecular spacing, and kinetic theory. This discussion is also beneficial for anyone involved in projects requiring precise measurements of gas properties.

hawflakes
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Hi, I am working on a project in which I need to know the distance between the particles in an ideal gas system. I have tried searching (google) for it but was unable to come with any actual values, just general terms. Can anyone refer me to where I might find this? Thanks
 
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1 mole of a gas has ~ 10^24 molecules and occupies about 22 liters (or 22 dm^3) at STP. So, the average spacing between molecules is roughly the cube root of 22*10^-24 dm ~ 3*10^-8 dm = 3*10^-9 m or about 30 angstroms or 3 nm.

Note : This distance is a function of temperature. Use the Ideal Gas Law to figure out for other P,T values.

The mean free path calculator here also gives average intermolecular spacing.
http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/kinetic/menfre.html#c3

I know that Nitrogen deviates little from ideality over a fair range of temperatures and pressures...so here goes (now using this calculator, to double check):

At 760mm Hg, 273 K and molecular diameter of 2.0 A (2.0 * 10^-10 m), which is the diameter of a N2 molecule, the calculator gives 3.3 nm...close enough to my guess. :smile:
 
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Thank you!
 

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