What is the equation for calculating molecular flux for a gas?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the molecular flux of argon gas, given its molar mass, density, and temperature. The correct equation for molecular flux is identified as flux = 0.25*(N/V)*√(8kT/(πm), but there is confusion regarding the conversion of density from kg/m³ to a number density based on molecules. Participants clarify that the molar mass can be used to derive the number density of molecules, which is essential for solving the problem. The final answer for the molecular flux is stated as 3.6×10^27 collisions/m²s. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding units and conversions in physics calculations.
Erubus
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Homework Statement


What is the molecular flux of argon gas, molar mass 18 g/mol, with density 0.73 kg/m3 and temperature 300 K? Answer: 3.6×10^27 collisions/m^2s

Homework Equations


I actually have no idea


The Attempt at a Solution


I can't find any reference to molecular flux in my notes or 2 physics textbooks, an equation would be appreciated.
 
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Thank you for the link. If I read it correctly, flux = .25*(N/V)*√(8kT/(\pim)

however, the density in the problem is given in kg/m^3 while the equation calls for the density based on the number of molecules, which is not given. It's probably an algebra problem now, but I'm also unsure with what to do with the given molar mass.
 
Erubus said:
Thank you for the link. If I read it correctly, flux = .25*(N/V)*√(8kT/(\pim)

however, the density in the problem is given in kg/m^3 while the equation calls for the density based on the number of molecules, which is not given. It's probably an algebra problem now, but I'm also unsure with what to do with the given molar mass.

It is easy to get the number density of molecules from the mass density and molar mass.
Molar mass is 18 g/mol=0.018 kg/mol. 1 mol gas contains NA (Avogadro Number) molecules, so the mass of a single molecule is 0.018/NA kg.
The mass density is 0.73 kg/m3, so the mass of 1 m3 gas is 0.73 kg. How many molecule is it ?

ehild
 
Thanks, I got it now.
 
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