question_answer

The molecular speeds of gaseous molecules are analogous to those of rifle bullets ; why is then odour of the gaseous molecules not detected so fast?

Answer:

                No doubt molecules in the gaseous state move almost with the same speed of rifle bullets. But these molecules do not follow a straight path. Since they undergo collisions with one another at a very fast rate, the path followed is zig-zag. Thus, the odour cannot be detected at the same speed at which the molecules move.