Based on the relative rates of deflation, the unknown gas is likely Neon (Ne) since it has a higher rate of deflation compared to Argon. Neon is the lightest gas among the given options (Kr, Xe, Ne)
Based on the given rate of deflation data, we can analyze the relative rates of deflation for Argon and the unknown gas to determine the most likely identity of the unknown gas.
The rate of deflation depends on the molar mass of the gas. Lighter gases tend to escape more quickly, resulting in a higher rate of deflation. Heavier gases, on the other hand, escape more slowly and have a lower rate of deflation.
Comparing the rates of deflation for Argon and the unknown gas, we can see that the unknown gas has a higher rate of deflation (40.7 ml/s) compared to Argon (28.9 ml/s). This suggests that the unknown gas is lighter than Argon.
From the given options of Kr, Xe, and Ne, we know that Neon (Ne) is the lightest gas among them. Therefore, based on the higher rate of deflation of the unknown gas compared to Argon, the most likely identity of the unknown gas is Neon (Ne).