Calculating Altitude Using Barometer and Thermometer Readings

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating altitude using readings from a thermometer and barometer in a mountainous setting. The scientist measures the temperature of steam and seeks to determine the height of the mercury column in the barometer, as well as the altitude relative to sea level.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of steam tables and the application of pressure equations, specifically questioning the need for deltas in the pressure formula. There is a focus on how to relate steam pressure at a given temperature to the height of the mercury column.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered guidance on the equations to use, while others are exploring different interpretations of the problem. There is no explicit consensus on the method, but a potential approach has been suggested.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the assumptions related to the properties of steam and the density of air, which may influence their calculations. There is also uncertainty regarding the use of steam tables and the appropriate equations for pressure and height.

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Homework Statement



a)
A scientist carries a thermometer, barometer, pan and gas camping stove up a mountain. At a certain point he collects water from a stream, boils it and measures the temperature of the steam condensing on the thermometer to be 98°C. What is the height of the column of mercury (density = 13560 kg m^{-3} ) in the barometer?

b) Estimate the altitude of the scientist relative to sea level, assuming the density of air to be 1.186 kg m^{-3} .

I am no sure how to do this question? Do I have to use steam tables?
 
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That's one of the ways of dealing with the problem.
 
Borek said:
That's one of the ways of dealing with the problem.

okay, how would I go about finding the height of the barometer? do I use this equation \bigtriangleup p = \rho g \bigtriangleup h ?
 
No need for deltas, p=dgh correctly describes pressure at the bottom of the column of a liquid.
 
Borek said:
No need for deltas, p=dgh correctly describes pressure at the bottom of the column of a liquid.

Okay thanks,

So do I just get the pressure of steam at that temperature 98C, and than rearrange the equation to find h ?

Is this the correct method to work out the height of the barometer?
 
Looks like.
 

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