Math Problem Statement

A confined sample of gas exerts a pressure of 450 mm Hg at a temperature of 27°C. At what temperature (Celsius) will it's pressure only be 200 mm Hg? (Volume is constant.)

Solution

To solve this problem, we can use Gay-Lussac's Law, which states that the pressure of a gas is directly proportional to its temperature (in Kelvin), provided the volume remains constant:

P1T1=P2T2\frac{P_1}{T_1} = \frac{P_2}{T_2}

Where:

  • P1P_1 and T1T_1 are the initial pressure and temperature.
  • P2P_2 and T2T_2 are the final pressure and temperature.

Step 1: Convert temperatures to Kelvin.

The initial temperature is 27°C. To convert Celsius to Kelvin: T1=27+273.15=300.15 KT_1 = 27 + 273.15 = 300.15 \text{ K}

Step 2: Use the equation to find T2T_2.

Rearrange the equation to solve for T2T_2: T2=P2T1P1T_2 = \frac{P_2 \cdot T_1}{P_1}

Substitute the known values:

  • P1=450 mm HgP_1 = 450 \text{ mm Hg}
  • P2=200 mm HgP_2 = 200 \text{ mm Hg}
  • T1=300.15 KT_1 = 300.15 \text{ K}

T2=200300.15450T_2 = \frac{200 \cdot 300.15}{450} T2=133.4 KT_2 = 133.4 \text{ K}

Step 3: Convert T2T_2 back to Celsius.

T2=133.4273.15=139.75CT_2 = 133.4 - 273.15 = -139.75^\circ \text{C}

Therefore, the temperature at which the gas's pressure will be 200 mm Hg is approximately -139.75°C.

Do you want more details or have any questions?

Related Questions:

  1. How does Gay-Lussac's Law apply to real-life situations?
  2. What would happen to the temperature if the pressure were increased instead of decreased?
  3. Can Gay-Lussac's Law be used for gases that deviate from ideal behavior?
  4. How would the calculation change if the volume were not held constant?
  5. What is the relationship between pressure and temperature in gases according to the kinetic molecular theory?

Tip: Always remember to convert temperatures to Kelvin when using gas laws, as these laws require absolute temperature values.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Gas Laws
Direct Proportionality
Kelvin-Celsius Conversion

Formulas

P1/T1 = P2/T2
T(K) = T(°C) + 273.15

Theorems

Gay-Lussac's Law

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12