If temperature is increased, what happens to the rate of diffusion?
A.
The rate of diffusion increases.
B.
The change in rate of diffusion is unaffected.
C.
Diffusion halts.
D.
The change in rate of diffusion is unpredictable.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. The rate of diffusion increases.
Explanation:
Diffusion is the process by which molecules move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, driven by the random motion of particles. The rate at which diffusion occurs is influenced by several factors, including the temperature of the environment.
When temperature increases, the kinetic energy of the molecules also increases. Kinetic energy is directly related to temperature; as temperature rises, molecules move more rapidly. This increase in molecular motion enhances the rate at which molecules spread out and mix, thereby increasing the rate of diffusion.
To understand why this happens, consider the molecular perspective. At higher temperatures, the molecules have more energy and move faster. This rapid movement causes more frequent collisions between molecules, which increases the likelihood that they will move from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration. This movement continues until the concentration of molecules is uniform throughout the space.
In biological systems, temperature plays a crucial role in diffusion processes such as the exchange of gases in the lungs, the absorption of nutrients in the intestines, and the movement of ions across cell membranes. For example, in the human body, the diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide across the alveolar membrane in the lungs is more efficient at normal body temperature. If the temperature were to drop significantly, the rate of diffusion would decrease, slowing down these vital processes.
Conversely, if the temperature were to increase beyond normal physiological levels, diffusion might occur too rapidly, potentially leading to disruptions in homeostasis. However, within a normal range of temperatures, an increase in temperature generally leads to an increase in the rate of diffusion, making this a fundamental principle in both chemistry and biology.