Mean free path

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-007072",
  "term": "Mean free path",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "The average distance a particle, such as an atom or molecule, travels between successive collisions with other particles in a gas or liquid. This distance is inversely proportional to the number density of the particles and their collision cross-section. It is a key parameter in kinetic theory, influencing transport phenomena like diffusion and thermal conductivity.",
  "subject": "Physical and Biophysical Chemistry",
  "see_also": [
    "Boltzmann constant",
    "stokes",
    "Stokes law",
    "aerosol",
    "mobility"
  ],
  "references": [
    "Green Book, 2nd ed., p. 56 (https://goldbook.iupac.org/files/pdf/green_book_2ed.pdf)",
    "PAC, 1990, 62, 2167. 'Glossary of atmospheric chemistry terms (Recommendations 1990)' on page 2201 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199062112167)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/mean-free-path/"
}