2. Fundamentals of Mass Transfer

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define mass transfer in your own words.

   Hint

   Think about how substances move in environmental contexts.

2. 2.

   What is molecular diffusion?

   Hint

   Consider what happens when you open a perfume bottle.

3. 3.

   What is the primary mechanism of mass transfer when advection is negligible?

   • Molecular Diffusion
   • Advection
   • Thermal Convection

   Hint

   Think about how molecules spread when there's no wind or flow.

4. 4.

   True or False: In rivers, diffusion always exceeds advection.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall the difference between rapid flow and slow molecule movement.

5. 5.

   A chemical spills into a deep stratified lake during winter. Describe how diffusion and advection will interact in this situation over time.

   Hint

   Recall the effects of stratification in deep lakes during cold seasons.

6. 6.

   Contrast the diffusion process in saturated vs unsaturated soils regarding pollutant movement.

   Hint

   Think about how easily water moves through different soil states.