Does diffusion occur over short distances?

Does diffusion occur over short distances?

Diffusion as a Transport Mechanism Diffusion is very efficient over short distances and does not require energy. As such it is used in a variety of body systems where gradients and membranes suited to it are found. However over large distances diffusion is very slow.

Is diffusion the fastest?

Diffusion happens in all states of matter, from solid to liquid to gas. Diffusion occurs the quickest when matter is in its gaseous state. Diffusion is, quite simply, the movement of molecules from a very busy, or “concentrated,” area to one of less concentration.

Does longer distance increase rate of diffusion?

the more the viscosity of the medium the more difficult it is for the molecule to move, the less the diffusion rate. the bigger the distance between the two points of diffusion the more time it needs for the molecule to arrive, and hence the less the rate of diffusion.

Why is diffusion so important in biology?

Diffusion is important to cells because it allows them to gain the useful substances they require to obtain energy and grow, and lets them get rid of waste products.

Is diffusion a slow or fast process?

Diffusion is a slow process and is not dependent on a system.

How is diffusion time related to diffusion distance?

Diffusion time increases with the square of diffusion distance. The diffusion coefficient is unique for each solute and must be determined experimentally. It is a function of a number factors including molecular weight of the diffusing species, temperature, and viscosity of the medium in which diffusion occurs.

Why is the diffusion coefficient smaller in porous media?

This results from the fact that the diffusion coefficient in porous media is smaller than the bulk diffusion coefficient; therefore, an effective diffusion coefficient is proposed, which is based on the average cross-sectional area open to diffusion and the distance traveled by molecules in porous media.

What happens to the rate of diffusion when the gradient is zero?

III. The Properties of Water. Thus, when the gradient is zero, there will be no net diffusion; diffusion will only occur so long as a concentration gradient exists; the rate of diffusion is indirectly proportional to resistance. In other words, the greater the resistance to diffusion, the lower the rate of diffusion.

How is the diffusion coefficient determined for each solute?

The diffusion coefficient is unique for each solute and must be determined experimentally. It is a function of a number factors including molecular weight of the diffusing species, temperature, and viscosity of the medium in which diffusion occurs.