SUMMARY
The net flux of glucose molecules across a distance of 1 micrometer (1 µm) is calculated using Fick's first law of diffusion. Given a concentration difference of 100 moles per cubic meter (mol/m³) and a diffusion coefficient for water of 5 x 10-10 m2/s, the correct formula is J = D(c1 - c2)/Δx. The resulting net flux is 0.05 mol/m2/s, confirming the calculation is accurate, with the correct unit being moles (mol), not mol2.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of Fick's laws of diffusion
- Knowledge of concentration gradients in solutions
- Familiarity with units of measurement in physical chemistry
- Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
- Study Fick's second law of diffusion for time-dependent processes
- Learn about the effects of temperature on diffusion coefficients
- Explore the application of diffusion in biological systems
- Investigate methods for measuring diffusion coefficients experimentally
USEFUL FOR
Students in chemistry or biology, researchers studying molecular transport, and professionals in fields related to biophysics or pharmacology will benefit from this discussion.