What is the term used to describe the movement of gases?

The movement of gases is best described by the term diffusion. This process refers to the spontaneous movement of gas particles from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, leading to an overall equalization of concentration throughout the space. In gases, the particles are in constant motion and have high energy, allowing them to spread out rapidly and mix with other gases.

For instance, when a small amount of perfume is sprayed in a room, the scent will gradually spread throughout the area until it is evenly distributed. This is due to diffusion, as the perfume particles move to balance the concentration gradient. Understanding diffusion is crucial in various scientific fields, including chemistry and biology, as it affects gas exchange in living organisms and influences reactions in gaseous states.