Enriched uranium is produced via gaseous diffusion of UF6. Suppose a process were developed to allow diffusion of gaseous uranium atoms, U (g). Calculate the ratio of diffusion rates of U235 and U238, and compare it to the ratio for UF6 given in the essay.
What essay are you talking about?
The diffusion constant D, which is proportional to the diffusion rate, is proportional to sqrt(1/M), where M is the molecular or atomic weight.
You are probably supposed to compare sqrt(238/235) with sqrt(352/349).
The former applies to the atomic vapor and the latter applies to the hexafluoride.
To calculate the ratio of diffusion rates of U235 and U238 for gaseous uranium atoms (U (g)), we need to compare it to the ratio for UF6. Let's break down the steps to find the answer:
Step 1: Understand the problem
The given information states that enriched uranium is produced via gaseous diffusion of UF6. It also mentions a hypothetical process that allows diffusion of gaseous uranium atoms (U (g)). We need to calculate the ratio of diffusion rates for U235 and U238 in this hypothetical process and compare it to the ratio for UF6.
Step 2: Determine the key properties
UF6 refers to uranium hexafluoride, which has a molecular formula of one uranium (U) atom and six fluorine (F) atoms. We know that UF6 is commonly used in the production of enriched uranium. In this compound, two isotopes of uranium are present: U235 and U238. These isotopes have different diffusion rates.
Step 3: Compare the diffusion rates of U235 and U238 in UF6
Based on the information provided in the essay, we can assume that the ratio of diffusion rates of U235 and U238 in UF6 is known. However, the essay does not explicitly state the value. You may need to refer to other sources or use a known value for this ratio to continue with the calculation.
Step 4: Hypothetical diffusion of gaseous uranium atoms (U (g))
In the hypothetical process mentioned in the problem, we need to determine the ratio of diffusion rates for U235 and U238. However, the essay does not provide any specific information about this hypothetical process. Without further details or assumptions, it is not possible to calculate the ratio for U (g) diffusion rates.
Therefore, with the given information, it is not possible to calculate the exact ratio of diffusion rates for U235 and U238 in the hypothetical process.