Interdiffusion refers to the process in which two or more substances or components diffuse and mix together, resulting in the intermingling of their atoms or molecules. It commonly occurs when materials are brought into contact with each other, allowing their constituent particles to move and redistribute, leading to a homogenization of the mixture.
Interdiffusion is a phenomenon that can transpire within a solid, liquid, or gas phase. In solids, it typically involves the migration of atoms or ions from one region to another, driven by a concentration gradient. This movement occurs through atomic jumps or vacancies in the crystal lattice, allowing the diffusion of species into adjacent crystal planes or interstitial spaces.
In liquids, interdiffusion manifests as the migration and mixing of molecules or ions between different regions. It is propelled by the kinetic energy of the particles, causing them to randomly move and spread throughout the liquid medium. Factors such as temperature, concentration gradients, and molecular size influence the rate at which interdiffusion occurs in liquids.
In gases, interdiffusion is characterized by the movement and blending of molecules from one gas to another, which can occur due to a pressure difference or concentration gradient existent between the gases. This process plays a fundamental role in various fields, including materials science, chemistry, biology, geology, and engineering.
Overall, interdiffusion encompasses the diffusion and blending of substances, resulting in a more uniform distribution or composition throughout the system, irrespective of the phase in which it takes place.
