What variables affect the rate of diffusion?

There are five main features that effect the rate of diffusion:

The rate of diffusion INCREASES if there is a short diffusion path because there is less chance of collision of particles.

The rate of diffusion INCREASES as temperature INCREASES (up to an optimum) as tempereature INCREASES the kinetic energy of particles.

The rate of diffusion INCREASES as the concentration gradient (difference in concentrations of the two sides) INCREASES

The rate of diffusion INCREASES the larger the surface area of the exchange surface

The rate of diffusion INCREASES the thinner the exchange surface

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Answered by Charlotte W. Biology tutor

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