What occupies the spaces between particles in a gas?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the nature of the spaces between particles in a gas, specifically addressing whether these spaces can be considered a vacuum and the implications of this on daily experiences with air.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about what occupies the spaces between gas particles, questioning if it constitutes a vacuum and why it is not experienced as such.
  • Another participant asserts that the spaces are indeed a vacuum, noting that the size of air molecules is much smaller than human perception allows.
  • A participant seeks clarification on whether the distances between particles are insignificant relative to human size.
  • A later reply confirms this perspective, suggesting that the distances can be considered insignificant.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present differing views on the interpretation of the spaces between gas particles, with some agreeing that it can be considered a vacuum while others are still exploring the implications of this concept.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the complexities of defining vacuum in relation to particle spacing and human perception, leaving assumptions about scale and experience unaddressed.

dioprem
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As you can see from the title, I'm puzzled as to what occupies the spaces in between the particles in a gas.

Take air for example. In Chemistry, I have learned that the particles in a gas are far apart. Hence the particles in the air around me are far apart. But if there are no particles in the spaces,it means no matter exists. So is it a vacuum? If so, why don't I experience it on a daily basis?

Sorry if the question is trivial, but it has been bugging me for some time.
 
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Yes, it is vacuum. You don't "see" it as you much larger than the air molecules.

Note that the space between atoms, regardless of the state of matter, or even inside atoms, is mostly vacuum as well.
 
So in other words the distances are insignificant when compared to our size?
 
You can put it that way.
 

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