- #1
Game Maker
- 4
- 4
- Homework Statement
- Energy plus mass is always conserved. Hence molecules of vaporized water will have a greater mass than molecules of liquid water, due to the heat of vaporization. Similarly, potential energy will increase the mass of a molecule at high altitude compared to when the molecule is close to the earth’s surface.
In 2017, hurricane Harvey stalled over Texas dumping unprecedented amounts of rain over a vast area. The heaviest rain totals averaged 25 inches and covered an area 150 miles in diameter. Assuming the rain fell from a height of 25,000 ft, how much mass was given up by the water vapor as it condensed and fell to earth.
Assume Texas is flat and at sea level.
Use a water density of 1gm/cc
Ignore the energy required to change the temp of liquid water.
- Relevant Equations
- e=m⋅C^2, e=Δh⋅a⋅m , e=∆Hvap⋅m
e = energy, m = mass, C= speed of light, Δh=change in altitude (height), a= acceleration of gravity
∆Hvap= latent heat of vaporization
First I have to explain that this is not actually a homework problem. It is a problem I created to use in a sort of game. If I made a mistake, it tends to ball up the game. So I am looking for someone to double check my answer, and to point out any errors in my statement about physics. I prefer not to provide the full details of my solution at this time, because I have found that it is sometimes possible to lead others down a wrong path without errors being caught. If there is a better forum for this, please let me know. Thank you in advance for your help.
My answer: 748kg
My answer: 748kg