Question

What is the relationship between the mass of a gas particle and the rate at which it diffuses through another gas?

• A. The larger the particle, the faster it diffuses
• B. There is no relationship
• C. The larger the particle, the slower it diffuses
• D. The more numerous the molecules, the faster they diffuse

Answer 1

The correct option is C The larger the particle, the slower it diffuses

A heavy particle has a lower velocity for a given kinetic energy or temperature. A large particle interact more with its environment which slows it down. Thus, heavy large particles diffuse more slowly than light or small ones.