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Maximizing Diffusion Speed

publish date: 2026/05/19 08:39:33.656061 UTC

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Which of the following environmental alterations will result in the fastest overall diffusion of a gaseous tracer substance inside an enclosed tube?

Raising the temperature and lowering the internal pressure of the tube.

Lowering the temperature to near freezing and pumping in extra compressed air.

Maintaining standard conditions while using a tracer gas with a much higher molecular mass.

Coating the interior walls of the tube with a thick layer of viscous, non-reactive oil.

Correct Answer

Raising the temperature and lowering the internal pressure of the tube.

Explanation

Raising the temperature increases the average velocity of the molecules. Lowering the pressure reduces the density of background air molecules, which minimizes the number of obstacles in the path and maximizes the mean free path of the diffusing substance.

Reference

Basic Physics: A Self-Teaching Guide

Quizzes you can take where this question appears

Diffusion through liquids and gases