Help! 50% Helium and 50% Argon in a Sealed Container

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SUMMARY

The discussion addresses the behavior of gases in a sealed container containing 50% helium and 50% argon. It concludes that despite the difference in molar weights, the distribution of gases will not result in significant stratification. The Boltzmann equation, specifically n=n0*exp(-M*g*h/(R*T)), demonstrates that the concentration difference between the gases at room temperature will be less than 1%. This indicates that both gases will remain well-mixed rather than separating by density.

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Hi all.

Just got a question to ask, I'm slightly puzzled by it.

Q.

Say that you have a sealed container and you put in it 50% helium and 50% argon and you leave it for a few days. Because argon is heavier than helium, would the most of the helium rise to the top part of the container while most of the argon sinks to the bottom?
 
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No. Take the Boltzmann equation in the Earth gravity and calculate the concentrations n=n0*exp(-M*g*h/(R*T)), M - molar weight, R - gas constant. I believe the difference in concentrations will be much smaller than 1% at room temperature.
 
Thanks Read.
 

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