With the help of an example, explain how diffusion of gases in water i...
**Diffusion of Gases in Water: An Essential Process**
Diffusion of gases in water is a fundamental process that plays a crucial role in various natural phenomena and human activities. It refers to the movement of gas molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, resulting in the equal distribution of the gas molecules throughout the water. Let's understand the significance of this process through an example.
**Example: Oxygen Diffusion in Water**
Oxygen is essential for the survival of aquatic organisms, such as fish and other marine creatures. However, the amount of dissolved oxygen in water is relatively low compared to the concentration of oxygen in the air. Diffusion helps in replenishing the oxygen supply in water and maintaining a suitable concentration for aquatic life.
1. **Oxygen Absorption by Water Surface:**
- Oxygen from the air comes into contact with the water surface.
- Due to the concentration gradient, oxygen molecules move from the higher concentration in the air to the lower concentration in the water.
- This diffusion process continues until equilibrium is reached, resulting in a constant supply of oxygen to the water.
2. **Oxygen Transfer to Aquatic Organisms:**
- Once dissolved in water, oxygen molecules can freely diffuse throughout the water body.
- Aquatic organisms, such as fish, use their gills to extract oxygen from the water.
- The oxygen molecules dissolved in water diffuse from regions of higher concentration (water) to lower concentration (gill surfaces).
- This allows the fish to extract the necessary oxygen for respiration, ensuring their survival.
3. **Oxygen Redistribution and Circulation:**
- The process of diffusion ensures the redistribution of oxygen within the water body.
- Oxygen molecules diffuse from regions of higher concentration to lower concentration, reaching areas where oxygen levels may be depleted.
- This redistribution helps maintain oxygen levels suitable for the survival of all aquatic organisms, particularly in large bodies of water.
In conclusion, the diffusion of gases in water, such as oxygen, is essential for the survival of aquatic organisms. It facilitates the absorption of oxygen by water from the air, its transfer to aquatic organisms, and the redistribution of oxygen within the water body. Understanding this process is crucial for maintaining the delicate balance of ecosystems and ensuring the well-being of marine life.
With the help of an example, explain how diffusion of gases in water i...
In water fish used oxygen dissolved in water.
So diffusion of O2 in water is essential for fish or aquatic life.
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