Calculating Mass of Helium in a Balloon

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the mass of helium in a balloon with a diameter of 20 meters and a gauge pressure of 2.0 atm. Using the ideal gas law, the user applied the equation pV = nRT to determine the mass of helium, arriving at a calculated mass of 2061 kg. However, the expected correct answer is 2050 kg, indicating a potential discrepancy in the constants or calculations used. The user confirmed that their mathematical approach was correct, suggesting a review of the constants applied in the calculation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the ideal gas law (pV = nRT)
  • Knowledge of pressure conversions (atm to Pa)
  • Familiarity with volume calculations for spheres
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the ideal gas law and its applications in real-world scenarios
  • Study pressure conversion techniques, particularly between atmospheres and Pascals
  • Learn about calculating the volume of spheres and its relevance in gas calculations
  • Investigate common constants used in gas law calculations, including R (ideal gas constant)
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or chemistry courses, educators teaching gas laws, and anyone involved in practical applications of gas calculations in engineering or scientific research.

titanium90
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Homework Statement



A balloon 20 m in diameter is filled with helium at a gauge pressure of 2.0 atm. A man is standing in a basket suspended from the bottom of the balloon. A restraining cable attached to the basket keeps the balloon from rising. The balloon (not including the gas it contains), the basket and the man have a combined mass of 150 kg. the temperature is 24oC that day and the barometer reads 760 mm Hg.

What is the mass of helium?

Homework Equations



pV = nRT

The Attempt at a Solution



(3 atm x 101325 Pa/atm)(4/3*pi*(10^3)) = (m/0.004)(8.314)(297.15)
m = 2061 kg

But the correct ans is 2050 kg. Anyone pls help? thanks
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Well, your math is right so if your constants are right then you have the right answer.
 

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