Higher temperatures enhance the rate of diffusion by providing particles with increased kinetic energy, which facilitates their movement and mixing.

To elaborate, diffusion is the process through which particles disperse from regions of high concentration to regions of low concentration. This phenomenon is driven by the kinetic energy of the particles, which is directly proportional to temperature. As the temperature rises, particles acquire more kinetic energy and consequently move at greater velocities. This heightened movement leads to an increased rate of diffusion, allowing particles to spread out more rapidly.

The interplay between temperature and diffusion can be understood by observing the behavior of particles. At lower temperatures, particles exhibit slower movement and possess less energy. This results in less frequent and less forceful collisions, causing diffusion to occur at a reduced rate. In contrast, as the temperature escalates, particles gain speed and energy, leading to more frequent and forceful collisions. This accelerates their dispersion, which is why diffusion occurs more swiftly at elevated temperatures.

This principle applies across all states of matter—solids, liquids, and gases. However, the impact of temperature on diffusion is most pronounced in gases. This is primarily due to the fact that gas particles have greater freedom of movement and are less constrained by intermolecular forces compared to particles in solids or liquids. Consequently, an increase in temperature leads to a more substantial enhancement in the rate of diffusion in gases than in solids or liquids.

In summary, temperature is a vital factor influencing the rate of diffusion. By raising the kinetic energy of particles, higher temperatures promote faster movement and more frequent collisions, resulting in an increased rate of diffusion. This concept is particularly significant in various biological contexts, including cellular processes and the distribution of nutrients and gases within ecosystems.