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Why is Diffusion Faster in Hot Water?

October 9, 2023
written by Sidra Batool

Increasing the temperature of water causes diffusion to occur more rapidly because heating impacts water at the molecular level. Elevated temperature speeds up diffusion in water through effects on viscosity, hydrogen bonding, solubility, and kinetic energy.

image showing Why is Diffusion Faster in Hot Water?

Reasons Why is Diffusion Faster in Hot Water

Here are a few reasons Why is Diffusion Faster in Hot Water:

1. Increased Kinetic Energy

Heating water increases the kinetic energy and motion of its molecules. The faster vibration and collision of the water molecules transfer energy to diffusing particles, speeding up their diffusion.

2. Lower Viscosity

Hot water has a lower viscosity than cold water. This means it flows more easily, providing less resistance to particles moving through it. Lower viscosity enables faster diffusion.

3. Disrupted Hydrogen Bonds

Heated water molecules have more energy. It causes more disruption of hydrogen bonds between them. This makes it easier for particles to maneuver through the liquid and diffuse.

4. Increased Solubility

Some diffusing substances become more soluble in hotter water. Increased solubility provides more opportunities for particle-water interactions to facilitate diffusion.

Example

A drop of food coloring will diffuse through hot water noticeably faster than cold water. The increased energy, lower viscosity, and modified bonds promote faster diffusion.

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