Calculating Volume of Weather Balloon to Lift 4220kg Package

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the volume of a weather balloon required to lift a specific weight, including the balloon itself and a package, using helium at standard temperature and pressure (STP). The subject area relates to buoyancy and fluid mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between buoyant force and the weights of the balloon, package, and helium. There are attempts to set up equations based on these relationships, and questions arise regarding the appropriate volume to use in calculations.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to derive a formula for the buoyant force and its relation to the weights involved. Some participants provide guidance on referring to relevant sections of their texts, while others express uncertainty about specific values to use in their calculations.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of using densities of air and helium, and the discussion hints at the need for specific values to complete the calculations. The original poster expresses a lack of initial direction, indicating a potential gap in understanding the problem setup.

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A 507kg weather balloon is designed to lift a 4220kg package. What volume should the balloon have after being filled with helium at STP in order that the total load can be lifted.

I have no idea how to start this problem...
 
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This is a bouyancy problem. Get to the Archemedes section of your text. Find densities of air and helium.

The buoyant force balances the total weight of the balloon , tha package and the helium gas.

I get a volume of 4260 m^3.
 
Last edited:
All right, so:

W(balloon) + W(package) W(helium) = F(buoyant)
4973.67 + 41398.2 + [0.179 * volume * 9.81](heluim) = F
= 1.29 * volume * 9.81

But what do I put if for volume..??
 
got it thanks
 

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