Mean Free Path Lab
Explore the average distance a gas particle travels between collisions.
The Concept
Gas particles are in constant, random motion, frequently colliding with one another. The Mean Free Path is the average distance a particle travels between these collisions. It's a key concept in understanding gas properties like viscosity and diffusion.
How to Experiment
- The yellow particle is our tracer. It leaves a trail showing its current path.
- When it collides with another particle, the trail resets.
- Use the slider to change the Number of Particles (gas density).
- Observe how the Mean Free Path changes as the gas becomes more or less crowded.
Experiment Controls
Analysis
Adjust the number of particles to see how it affects the average distance the yellow particle can travel before hitting another.
Live Data
Last Path Length: 0 pm
Mean Free Path (λ): 0 pm
(pm = picometers, 10⁻¹² m)