Diffusion:
1. In simple words, The intermixing of gases is called Diffusion. But Diffusion also takes place in Liquids and Solids.
Direction of Diffusion is from High concentration to Low concentration.
2. The diffusion of one gas into another gas goes on until a uniform mixture is formed. For example: diffusion of bromine vapors in air.
3. Diffusion is the property of matter which is based on the movement of its particles.
4. Diffusion is fastest in gases and slowest in solids.
5. The rate of diffusion increases on increasing the temperature of the diffusing substance.
6. ”For Gasses, at constant temperature, the rate of Diffusion is inversely proportional to Molecular mass of Gas” : Graham’s Law of Diffusion.
7. The word Diffusion is derived from the Latin word, Diffundere, which means “to spread way out”.
Diffusion in Gases:
- Diffusion in gases is very fast. This is because the particles in gases move very quickly in all directions.
- The rate of diffusion of a gas, however, depends on its density. Light gases diffuse faster than heavy gases.
- Example: When we light an incense stick (agarbatti) in a corner of our room, its fragrance spreads in the whole room very quickly due to the diffusion of its smoke into the air.
Diffusion in liquids:
Diffusion in liquids is slower than that in gases. This is because the particles in liquids move slowly as compared to the particles in gases.
Example: The spreading of purple colour of Potassium Permanganate into water, on its own, is due to the diffusion of Potassium Permanganate particles into water. Notice the colour is diffused from high concentration to low concentration.
Note: The gases like carbon dioxide and oxygen are essential for the survival of aquatic plants and animals. The carbon dioxide and oxygen gas present in air diffuse into water, and dissolve in it. The aquatic plants use the dissolved carbon dioxide for preparing food by photosynthesis and aquatic animals use the dissolved oxygen of water for breathing. This is an example of diffusion of gases into a liquid.
Diffusion in solids:
- Diffusion can also takes place in solids. Diffusion in solids is very, very slow process.
- Example: If we write something on a blackboard and leave it uncleaned for a considerable period of time, we will find that it becomes quite difficult to clean the blackboard afterwards. This is due to the fact that some of the particles of chalk have diffused into the surface of blackboard.
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