Abstract
We used molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to investigate the diffusion of O2, N2, CH4, and CO2 in a crystal of ice Ih. The results show that the diffusion mechanism for the molecules differs significantly from the interstitial mechanism that applies to small atoms such as helium. The air molecules hopped between stable sites by a new mechanism called the breaking-bond mechanism in which hydrogen bonds in the lattice are broken. The diffusion coefficients determined from the MD calculations are several orders of magnitude larger than the estimates under the assumption of the interstitial mechanism. We conclude that the repulsive interactive between the air and water molecules in ice is the dominant factor governing the diffusion mechanism.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
