Mean Free Path – Class 11 | Chapter – 13 | Physics Short Notes Series PDF for NEET & JEE

Mean Free Path: In physics, the mean free path is the average distance a particle, such as a gas molecule or a photon, travels between collisions with other particles or obstacles. The concept of mean free path is commonly used in the study of gas behavior and radiation transport. In a gas, the mean free path determines the distance a molecule travels before colliding with another molecule. It depends on the size, shape, and density of the molecules, as well as the temperature and pressure of the gas.

For example, in a high-density gas, the mean free path is short because there are many particles close together that the particles can collide with. In contrast, in a low-density gas, the mean free path is longer because there are fewer particles and more open space between them.

In radiation transport, the mean free path is used to describe how far a photon or other type of radiation can travel in a material before being absorbed or scattered. The mean free path depends on the material’s properties, such as its density and atomic structure, as well as the energy and type of radiation.

Overall, the mean free path is an important concept in understanding the behavior of particles and radiation in various materials and environments.

How do we Measure Mean Free Path?

Formula of Mean Free Path

The formula for mean free path (l) depends on the properties of the particles and the medium in which they are moving. In general, the formula for mean free path can be expressed as:

l = 1/(√2 * π * d² * n)

where:

• d is the diameter of the particles
• n is the number density of particles in the medium

This formula assumes that the particles are spherical and move randomly in all directions. It also assumes that the particles are in a dilute gas, where the distance between the particles is much larger than the particle size. In this case, the mean free path represents the average distance a particle travels between collisions.

It’s important to note that the mean free path is a statistical quantity and can vary significantly depending on the conditions of the medium and the particles.

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By Team Learning Mantras