Math Problem Statement

There are several gas cylinders that are under pressure that are located outside of the maintenance department. As the safety professional, you have been asked a question regarding this issue. Please provide the correct response, and discuss your recommendations for any control measures.

The volume of the gas cylinder is 25.7 liters and exerts a pressure of 670 mmHg. If part of the gas is used, the pressure drops to 595 mmHg. What would be the remaining volume of gas?

Solution

To determine the remaining volume of gas in the cylinder after some of it has been used, we can apply Boyle's Law. Boyle's Law states that the pressure of a gas is inversely proportional to its volume, provided the temperature remains constant. Mathematically, Boyle's Law is expressed as:

P1V1=P2V2P_1 V_1 = P_2 V_2

Where:

  • P1P_1 = initial pressure of the gas
  • V1V_1 = initial volume of the gas
  • P2P_2 = final pressure of the gas
  • V2V_2 = final volume of the gas

Given:

  • P1=670 mmHgP_1 = 670 \text{ mmHg}
  • V1=25.7 litersV_1 = 25.7 \text{ liters}
  • P2=595 mmHgP_2 = 595 \text{ mmHg}
  • V2=?V_2 = ? (remaining volume of the gas)

We need to find V2V_2. Rearranging Boyle's Law to solve for V2V_2:

V2=P1×V1P2V_2 = \frac{P_1 \times V_1}{P_2}

Substituting the known values:

V2=670 mmHg×25.7 liters595 mmHgV_2 = \frac{670 \text{ mmHg} \times 25.7 \text{ liters}}{595 \text{ mmHg}}

Let's calculate V2V_2:

V217219 mmHg \cdotliters595 mmHg28.93 litersV_2 \approx \frac{17219 \text{ mmHg \cdot liters}}{595 \text{ mmHg}} \approx 28.93 \text{ liters}

Final Answer: The remaining volume of gas in the cylinder is approximately 28.93 liters.

Recommendations for Control Measures:

  1. Storage Conditions: Ensure that the gas cylinders are stored in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent pressure build-up.

  2. Pressure Monitoring: Regularly monitor the pressure of the cylinders using pressure gauges to detect any abnormal changes that could indicate leaks or over-pressurization.

  3. Safety Valves: Equip the cylinders with safety valves that can release excess pressure automatically if it exceeds safe limits.

  4. Labeling and Signage: Clearly label all gas cylinders with their contents and pressures, and provide safety signage in the storage area to indicate the presence of pressurized gas.

  5. Training: Ensure that all personnel handling the gas cylinders are properly trained in safe handling practices, including the use of pressure regulators and emergency procedures.

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Related Questions:

  1. How does temperature affect the pressure and volume of a gas according to the combined gas law?
  2. What are the safety protocols for handling gas cylinders in confined spaces?
  3. How do you calculate the amount of gas used from a cylinder given the initial and final pressures?
  4. What are the potential hazards of over-pressurized gas cylinders?
  5. How do safety valves work to prevent gas cylinder explosions?

Tip:

Always ensure that gas cylinders are secured in an upright position to prevent them from tipping over and potentially damaging the valve, which could lead to a dangerous release of gas.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Boyle's Law
Gas Laws

Formulas

Boyle's Law: P1 * V1 = P2 * V2

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Advanced High School