diffunderende

Diffunderende is a Norwegian term used as an adjective to describe processes or substances that spread through another medium by diffusion. In scientific usage it characterizes the act or state of diffusion, where molecules move from regions of higher concentration to lower concentration until equilibrium is reached.

Etymology: The word derives from diffundere, Latin for “to pour out,” via diffusion-related forms in Scandinavian languages. In Norwegian, forms related to diffundere express ongoing diffusion, with diffunderende functioning as the present participle.

Overview: Diffusion is the passive dispersal of particles driven by concentration gradients. Diffunderende describes this spreading in liquids, gases, and solids, though the mechanisms can differ. In liquids and gases, molecular motion leads to mixing without bulk flow. In solids, diffusion occurs through lattice or grain boundaries and often depends strongly on temperature.

Mechanisms: The diffunderende process arises from random molecular motion (Brownian motion). Rate increases with temperature and decreases with viscosity or obstacles. Fick’s laws provide a common framework: diffusion flux is proportional to the negative concentration gradient, and the change in concentration over time relates to the divergence of that flux. Boundary conditions, medium structure, and interfaces influence the rate and pattern of diffusion.

Contexts and applications: In biology, diffusion enables gas exchange in lungs and nutrient transport in tissues. In chemistry and materials science, diffusion governs reaction rates, diffusion bonding, and permeation through membranes. Environmental science studies diffusion of pollutants in air and water, while food science examines diffusion of flavors and additives.

See also: Diffusion, Fick’s laws, Diffusion coefficient, Permeation, Osmosis, Diffusion bonding.