Calculate the ratio of diffusion for carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide

The ratio of diffusion of CO to CO2 is 5 : 4

Explanation:

Let R1 be the rate of diffusion for carbon monoxide(CO)

Let R2 be the rate of diffusion for carbon dioxide (CO2)

Let M1 be the molar mass of CO

Let M2 be the molar mass of CO2

Molar Mass of CO = 12 + 12 = 28g/mol

Molar Mass of CO2 = 12 + (2x16) = 12 + 32 = 44g/mol

The rate of diffusion of a gas as explained by Graham's law of diffusion is given by

R1/R2 = √(M2/M1)

R1/R2 = √(44/28)

R1/R2 = √1.57

R1/R2 = 1.25

Converting 1.25 to fraction, we have:

1.25 = 125/100 = 5/4

Therefore R1/R2 = 5/4 i.e

R1 : R2 = 5 : 4

The ratio of diffusion of CO to CO2 is 5 : 4