Skip to main content
Root-Mean-Square Velocity of Gases
21. Kinetic Theory of Ideal Gases / Root-Mean-Square Velocity of Gases / Problem 5

A sample of hydrogen gas contains hydrogen (11H) and deuterium (21H) atoms. A scientist developed a method to separate the two isotopes based on the technique of isotope separation by gas diffusion. The sample of hydrogen is introduced into a series of diffusion-permeable porous cells at a fixed temperature T. 11H diffuses through the porous membrane more rapidly than 21H, resulting in a separation of the two isotopes. The scientist collects the enriched gas stream, which contains 21H. Calculate the ratio of the root mean square velocities of 11H and 21H (vrms(11H)/vrms(21H)). 11H has a mass of 1.008 u, and 21H has a mass of 2.014 u.

Was this helpful?
Learn this concept