What is the pressure of outer space?

In summary, the conversation discusses calculating the pressure of outer space using the density of helium and the ideal gas equation. The best route forward would be to convert the given mass and density into a volume and use the equation pV=nRT with the molar gas constant.
  • #1
capslock
17
0
I'm trying to calculate the pressure of outer space given the denisty of helium is of the order 1 atom per cm^3, temprature 3K.

1 atom per cm^3 => 10^6 per m^3.

It's a low pressure so I guess I can use the ideal gas equation. I also know the mass of a helium atom is 6.68x10^-27 kg.

What's the best route forward?

Best Regards, James.
 
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  • #2
Why are you trying to calculate the pressure?

Either way you can use:
[tex]pV= nRT [/tex]
where [itex]n[/itex] is the number of moles and [itex]R = 8.31 J\cdot mol^{-1}\cdot K^{-1}[/itex] and is the molar gas constant.

You will first need to convert the mass and density into a volume.
Hope this helps.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Hootenanny said:
Hope this helps.
That's great. Thanks.
 

1. What is the pressure like in outer space?

In outer space, the pressure is essentially zero. This is because space is a vacuum, meaning there is no air or other molecules to exert pressure on objects.

2. How does the lack of pressure in outer space affect the human body?

The lack of pressure in outer space can cause severe damage to the human body. Without the pressure of air to keep our bodily fluids in place, they can begin to boil and evaporate. This can lead to swelling, bruising, and even death.

3. Is there any pressure in the vacuum of space?

While space is considered a vacuum, there are still some areas where there may be extremely low levels of pressure. For example, near stars and planets, there may be some gas molecules present, resulting in a tiny amount of pressure.

4. Can spacesuits protect astronauts from the lack of pressure in outer space?

Yes, spacesuits are designed to protect astronauts from the lack of pressure in outer space. They are pressurized with oxygen and other gases, which help to maintain a suitable pressure around the body and prevent the harmful effects of the vacuum of space.

5. How do spacecrafts withstand the pressure differences between Earth and outer space?

Spacecrafts are built to withstand the pressure differences between Earth and outer space through a process called pressurization. The air inside the spacecraft is kept at a higher pressure than the vacuum of space, creating a barrier that keeps the spacecraft intact and allows humans to survive in the harsh conditions of outer space.

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