Diffusion Speed: Gas vs Liquid

When it comes to diffusion, the speed at which a substance diffuses depends on the mass of its molecules. Heavier molecules move more slowly, leading to slower diffusion rates, while lighter molecules diffuse faster. In this case, gas molecules have lower mass compared to liquid molecules, allowing them to diffuse faster.

The reasoning behind this lies in the fact that heavier molecules have more inertia, making them move at a slower pace compared to lighter molecules with less mass. As a result, lighter gas molecules are able to move more swiftly and diffuse faster than heavier liquid molecules.

Therefore, the correct answer to the question is c) Gas - Fastest, Liquid - Slowest. Gas molecules, such as those found in the gaseous state of matter, tend to have lower mass compared to liquid molecules, resulting in their faster diffusion rates. On the other hand, liquid molecules, which are denser and have higher mass, exhibit slower rates of diffusion.

It's important to remember that diffusion is the process by which molecules disperse in response to differences in concentration. This phenomenon occurs in all states of matter, but the speed of diffusion varies depending on the mass of the molecules involved.