How do diffusion rates differ in gases, liquids and solids?

Diffusion is the process of penetration of atoms of one substance into another.

All bodies are composed of molecules or atoms, but there is a big difference between the three basic states of matter.

The atoms in a solid are close to each other, which gives the solid its strength. Therefore, atoms of a foreign substance will penetrate into a solid at a low speed. Try, for example, to put two metal plates on top of each other, after contact they will not merge, this kind of diffusion could take years.

Diffusion takes place much faster in liquids, because the interatomic distance in them is greater than in solids. If you drop the paint into water, it will change color very quickly.

Diffusion is fastest in gases, because the interatomic distance in these bodies reaches large sizes. Because of this, by the way, the gas occupies the entire space allocated to it. Try sprinkling cologne at one end of the room and standing at the opposite end. The smell due to diffusion will quickly reach you.