Gas Diffusion: HCl & NH3 Reaction Time

In summary, the experiment involved gas diffusion through a glass tube with HCl and NH3 on opposite sides. It took 5 minutes for the gases to meet and form a precipitate, despite the mean velocities of the molecules being around 500 m/s. This is because the larger molecules, HCl, were bouncing off each other and slowing down the overall movement. This is in line with Graham's diffusion rate equations.
  • #1
erjkism
54
0
i did an experiment involving gas diffusion through a glass tube. HCl was on one side of the tube, while NH3 was on the other side. it took about 5 minutes for the gases to meet in the middle of the tube and form a precipitate.

but the mean velociries of the HCL and NH3 gas molecules at 25 degrees celsius are around 500 m/s. why did it take so long for the molecules to meet and react?
 
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  • #2
Most of the time the 500m/s HCL molecule is bouncing off other HCL molecules.
Imagine a crowd where everyone is running around in circles bumbing into each other - the crowd as a whole only moves very slowly.
 
  • #3
k thanks
 
  • #4
But would not the size of the molecules also effect the transit time. Not being a wise guy, just trying to learn as well. My thinking is the NH3 would be larger, so it would be like cramming a bunch of stuff in a small hole.
 
  • #5
actually the HCl molecules are larger, and they ended up going quite a bit slower than the lighter NH3 molecules. It goes along with grahams diffusion rate equations
 

What is gas diffusion?

Gas diffusion is the process by which gas molecules spread out and mix with each other due to their kinetic energy. This occurs in a gas medium, such as air or a closed container, and is driven by differences in gas concentration and pressure.

How does gas diffusion occur in the HCl & NH3 reaction?

In the HCl & NH3 reaction, gas diffusion occurs as a result of the concentration gradient between the two gases. HCl and NH3 molecules move from areas of high concentration to areas of low concentration until they reach equilibrium. This process is known as diffusion.

What factors affect the reaction time of HCl & NH3?

The reaction time of HCl & NH3 can be affected by several factors, including temperature, pressure, and the concentration of the two gases. Higher temperatures and pressures typically result in faster reaction times, while lower concentrations of the gases can slow down the reaction.

How can the reaction time of HCl & NH3 be measured?

The reaction time of HCl & NH3 can be measured using various methods, such as spectrophotometry or titration. These techniques involve monitoring the changes in the concentration of the gases over time and can provide an accurate measurement of the reaction time.

What applications does gas diffusion in the HCl & NH3 reaction have?

The HCl & NH3 reaction has various applications, including in industrial processes, such as the production of fertilizers and pharmaceuticals. It is also important in atmospheric chemistry, as HCl and NH3 are significant contributors to acid rain formation.

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