Graham's Law Formula:
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Definition: Graham's Law states that the rate of effusion of a gas is inversely proportional to the square root of its molar mass (or density at constant temperature and pressure).
Purpose: This calculator helps determine the effusion rate of one gas relative to another when their densities are known.
The calculator uses Graham's Law formula:
Where:
Explanation: The ratio of effusion rates is inversely proportional to the square root of the ratio of their densities.
Details: This law is fundamental in understanding gas behavior, separation of isotopes, and industrial gas processes.
Tips: Enter the densities of both gases (default values provided) and the effusion rate of the second gas. All density values must be > 0.
Q1: What is effusion?
A: Effusion is the process where gas molecules escape through a tiny hole into a vacuum.
Q2: Why does Graham's Law depend on density?
A: At constant temperature and pressure, density is directly proportional to molar mass, which determines molecular speed.
Q3: What are typical gas densities?
A: Common gas densities at STP range from 0.09 kg/m³ (H₂) to 1.98 kg/m³ (CO₂).
Q4: Can I use molar mass instead of density?
A: Yes, since density ratio equals molar mass ratio at constant T and P.
Q5: What's the practical application of this calculation?
A: Used in gas separation processes, determining unknown molecular weights, and predicting gas behavior.