If helium and methane are allowed to diffuse out of the container unde...
Diffusion of gases
Diffusion is the process by which particles move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. In the case of gases, diffusion occurs due to the random motion of gas particles.
Graham's law of diffusion
Graham's law of diffusion states that the rate of diffusion of a gas is inversely proportional to the square root of its molar mass. Mathematically, it can be represented as:
Rate of diffusion ∝ 1/√(molar mass)
Comparing diffusion rates of helium and methane
To determine the ratio of the rate of diffusion of helium to methane, we need to compare their molar masses and apply Graham's law of diffusion.
The molar mass of helium (He) is approximately 4.0 g/mol, while the molar mass of methane (CH4) is approximately 16.0 g/mol.
Using Graham's law, we can calculate the ratio of their diffusion rates:
Rate of diffusion of helium / Rate of diffusion of methane = √(molar mass of methane / molar mass of helium)
Rate of diffusion of helium / Rate of diffusion of methane = √(16.0 g/mol / 4.0 g/mol)
Rate of diffusion of helium / Rate of diffusion of methane = √4
Rate of diffusion of helium / Rate of diffusion of methane = 2
Therefore, the ratio of the rate of diffusion of helium to methane is 2:1.
Conclusion
Based on Graham's law of diffusion, the rate of diffusion of a gas is inversely proportional to the square root of its molar mass. In the case of helium and methane, the molar mass of helium is four times smaller than that of methane. This results in a ratio of the rate of diffusion of helium to methane of 2:1. Therefore, option A, 2.0, is the correct answer.
If helium and methane are allowed to diffuse out of the container unde...