Multiple choice

A mixture of $H_2$ and $O_2$ in $2:1$ volume is allowed to diffuse through a porous partition. What is the composition of gas coming out initially?

  1. $1:2$
  2. $4:1$
  3. $8:1$
  4. $1:4$
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C Correct answer
Explanation

According to Graham's Law of Diffusion, the rate of diffusion is inversely proportional to the square root of the molar mass. For H2 (mass 2) and O2 (mass 32), the ratio of rates is sqrt(32/2) = 4. With a 2:1 volume ratio, the diffusion ratio is (2 * 4) : (1 * 1) = 8:1.

AI explanation

According to Graham's law of diffusion, the ratio of the rates of diffusion of two gases is inversely proportional to the square root of their molar masses. The ratio of the rate of hydrogen to oxygen is the square root of 32 divided by 2, which gives 4. Since the initial volumes are in a 2 to 1 ratio, the initial composition of the gas diffusing out is 2 multiplied by 4 for hydrogen and 1 multiplied by 1 for oxygen. This results in a final ratio of 8 to 1.

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