Why does helium leak from a latex balloon faster than oxygen?

Subject: Why does helium leak from a latex balloon faster than oxygen?

Date: Thu May 4 17:14:10 2000
Posted by Nick
Grade level: 4-6 School: Seven Hills Middle School
City: Nevada City State/Province: California Country: USA
Area of science: Chemistry
ID: 957478450.Ch

Message:


I put one oxygen balloon and one helium balloon in our (hot) attic, our 
dining room (room temperature) and in our freezer.  The helium leaked 
faster in all three locations.  The helium balloon in the freezer actually 
shrunk - then expanded when exposed to room temperature.  Why does it do 
that?

Re: Why does helium leak from a latex balloon faster than oxygen?

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