High altitude balloon gas expansion

In summary, the conversation discusses how to calculate the rate of expansion of gas in a balloon at different altitudes, given a constant temperature of -30f. The problem also involves finding the diameter of a balloon filled with either helium or hydrogen at 30k, 60k, and 90k feet in order to lift a total weight of 500 lbs. The solution involves taking the pressures at each altitude and determining the necessary volume to supply the difference in weight between the displaced air and the gas. It is important to pay attention to units when solving the problem.
  • #1
Gmanme
25
0

Homework Statement



Could someone help me calculate the rate of expansion of gas (helium or hydrogen) in a balloon at different altitudes.

temperature is -30f at all altitudes

http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/air-altitude-pressure-d_462.html <- chart for air pressure

Homework Equations



What would the diameter of a balloon filled with helium OR hydrogen be at 30k 60k and 90k feet have to lift 500lbs total.

The Attempt at a Solution



around 23 ft at sea level
 
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  • #2
I'm having trouble understanding. Is the balloon rising up at a constant speed? Is it just let go and free to rise? If you suddenly change a balloon's altitude, it would expand or contract because the atmospheric pressure is now different, but the expansion would stop once an equilibrium is reached.
 
  • #3
Take the pressures from 30k, 60k and 90k, and find out how big the balloon would have to be to lift a total wieght of 500 lbs at these altitudes.
 
  • #4
Gmanme said:
Take the pressures from 30k, 60k and 90k, and find out how big the balloon would have to be to lift a total wieght of 500 lbs at these altitudes.

Well you know the buoyancy required is 500 lbs. You will want to know at each of those pressures how big a volume is needed to supply the difference in weight of the air displaced and helium or hydrogen (choose one) at the same pressure.

Careful of your units.
 

1. What is high altitude balloon gas expansion?

High altitude balloon gas expansion is the process by which the gas inside a balloon expands as it rises to higher altitudes. This is due to a decrease in atmospheric pressure, which allows the gas molecules to spread out and take up more space.

2. Why does gas expand at high altitudes?

At higher altitudes, the atmospheric pressure is lower, meaning there are fewer air molecules pushing down on the gas inside the balloon. This decrease in pressure allows the gas molecules to move more freely and take up more space, causing the gas to expand.

3. How does high altitude balloon gas expansion affect the flight of the balloon?

As the gas inside the balloon expands, it becomes less dense than the surrounding air. This makes the balloon less buoyant, causing it to rise even higher. However, as the balloon rises, the atmospheric pressure continues to decrease, and eventually the gas inside will expand to the point where the balloon bursts.

4. What gases are commonly used in high altitude balloons?

The most common gas used in high altitude balloons is helium, due to its low density and non-flammability. Hydrogen is also sometimes used, but it is highly flammable and therefore poses a safety risk.

5. How is high altitude balloon gas expansion used in scientific research?

High altitude balloon flights are often used for scientific research, as they can reach altitudes that are difficult or impossible to reach with other methods. The expansion of gas at high altitudes can also be measured and studied to better understand atmospheric conditions and dynamics.

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