Why do dust particles stay suspended in the gas?

In summary, dust particles stay suspended in gas in a closed transparent glass due to the constant bombardment of free moving gas molecules that counteract the force of gravity. This is known as Brownian motion and it prevents the dust particles from falling to the bottom.
  • #1
nyrychvantel
14
0
A diagram shows many very small dust particles suspended in the gas in a closed transparent glass.

Question: Explain why dust particles stay suspended in the gas and do not fall to the bottom of the syringe.

My answer:
Dust particles are constantly being bombarded by free moving gas molecules in the glass that causes it to counteract the force of gravity. Therefore, the dust particles stay suspended because the resultant force acting on the dust particle is zero.

Am I correct in explaining this phenomenon? Please correct me.
Thanks!
 
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  • #2
That sounds good and just like the gas molecules the dust particles will be moving randomly(Brownian motion)
 
  • #3


Your explanation is correct! Dust particles stay suspended in gas because of the balance of forces acting on them. The force of gravity pulls the particles downwards, while the random motion of gas molecules pushes them in all directions. As a result, the dust particles are constantly being pushed upwards and sideways, preventing them from settling at the bottom of the glass. This is known as Brownian motion and is a key factor in the suspension of dust particles in gas. Additionally, the small size of the dust particles also contributes to their ability to stay suspended, as they have a larger surface area compared to their mass, making it easier for the gas molecules to keep them afloat.
 

1. Why do dust particles stay suspended in the gas?

The answer to this question lies in the concept of Brownian motion. Dust particles, which are much larger in size compared to gas molecules, constantly collide with the gas molecules and are jostled around by their random movements. This constant motion prevents the dust particles from settling down and keeps them suspended in the gas.

2. How does the size of the dust particles affect their suspension in the gas?

The size of the dust particles plays a crucial role in their suspension in gas. Smaller particles have a larger surface area compared to their mass, making them more affected by the random movements of gas molecules. This results in smaller particles being suspended for a longer time compared to larger particles.

3. Can the temperature of the gas affect the suspension of dust particles?

Yes, the temperature of the gas does affect the suspension of dust particles. Higher temperatures lead to faster and more frequent collisions between gas molecules and dust particles, making it easier for the dust particles to stay suspended. On the other hand, lower temperatures result in slower movements and fewer collisions, making it more difficult for dust particles to stay suspended.

4. Why do dust particles eventually settle down in a gas?

Despite the constant motion of gas molecules keeping them suspended, dust particles eventually settle down due to the force of gravity. As time passes, the force of gravity overcomes the random movements of gas molecules and pulls the dust particles towards the ground or other surfaces.

5. How does the concentration of dust particles in gas affect their suspension?

The concentration of dust particles in gas also plays a role in their suspension. Higher concentrations of dust particles mean more collisions with gas molecules, making it easier for them to stay suspended. On the other hand, lower concentrations result in fewer collisions, making it more likely for dust particles to settle down.

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