An unknown gas effuses 2.3 times faster than N₂O₄ at the same temperature.What is the identity of the unknown gas? A)CN₂ B)NH₃ C)N₂O D)O₃

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rate of effusion of a gas is inversely proportional to the square root of its molar mass (Graham's law). The unknown gas effuses 2.3 times faster than N₂, which means its molar mass must be smaller. Given the molar mass of N₂ is 28 g/mol, the molar mass of the unknown gas can be calculated using the square of the ratio of effusion rates (2.3² = 5.29). When dividing 28 g/mol by 5.29, the result is approximately 5.3 g/mol, which is closest to the molar mass of NH₃ (17 g/mol), making NH₃ (choice B) the correct answer.

An Unknown Gas Effuses 2