The primary difference between diffusion and effusion is that diffusion involves the gradual mixing of particles in a gas or liquid throughout a space, while effusion specifically refers to the escape of gas particles through a small opening or porous barrier.
What is Diffusion?
Diffusion refers to the process by which particles, such as molecules, ions, or atoms, move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. This movement occurs due to the natural tendency of particles to spread out and achieve a state of equilibrium.
What is Effusion?
Effusion refers to the process of a gas or liquid escaping through a small opening or porous material, typically due to differences in pressure or concentration. It’s a phenomenon where particles move from an area of higher pressure or concentration to an area of lower pressure or concentration.
This can often be observed in everyday situations, such as the escape of gas from a balloon or the slow seeping of liquid through a small hole in a container.
Diffusion vs Effusion
The basic difference between diffusion and Effusion is given below:
| Aspect | Diffusion | Effusion |
| Process | Movement of particles from high to low concentration areas. | Escape of gas or liquid through a small opening. |
| Mechanism | Random motion of particles in all directions. | Particles passing through a small opening due to pressure differences. |
| Rate of Movement | Slower compared to effusion. | Faster compared to diffusion. |
| Factors Affecting | Concentration gradient, temperature, particle size. | Pressure difference, size of the opening. |
| Examples | Scent spreading in a room, dye mixing in water. | Gas leaking from a tire, perfume escaping from a bottle. |