Question:medium

Give reason for the following observations.
(a) Naphthalene balls disappear with time without leaving any solid.
(b) We can get the smell of perfume sitting several metres away.

Updated On: Jan 19, 2026
Show Solution

Solution and Explanation

Given Observations and Reasons: 

(a) Naphthalene balls disappear with time without leaving any solid:

Reason: This occurs due to the process of sublimation. Naphthalene, which is a solid, directly changes into its gaseous form when exposed to air, without passing through the liquid state. This is known as sublimation. The naphthalene molecules escape into the air, and eventually, the solid balls disappear completely.

(b) We can get the smell of perfume sitting several meters away:

Reason: This happens because of the process of diffusion. The molecules of perfume spread through the air from the place where they are sprayed. The perfume molecules move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, allowing us to smell the fragrance even from a distance. This diffusion of molecules is facilitated by air particles, which carry the scent over long distances.

Was this answer helpful?
0

Questions Asked in CBSE Class IX exam