What happens to the pressure and byproducts in a contained hydrogen explosion?

In summary, when a spherical container filled with a perfect hydrogen to oxygen fuel air mixture is ignited, the pressure inside the container initially spikes and then reduces due to the compression of the gases into water. The resulting low pressure environment allows the water to remain in a vapor state, and there are no other byproducts present. The state of the water depends on the temperature, with it remaining in vapor state if the temperature is above 374.1 C and potentially condensing if the temperature is below the critical temperature and the pressure is high enough. The volume of gas can be calculated using the molar volumes of gas and liquid, and the presence of 1 mole of water.
  • #1
honel440
1
0
This is an interesting thing to me, imagine a spherical container filled with a perfect hydrogen to oxygen fuel air mixture, there is an ignition source(such as a spark plug) in the container. So you light off the gasses, what happens to the pressure in the container? My resoning says obviously it spikes immediately, but then what happens, water is much more compressed than the gasses, so you've burned the hydrogen, and water is your result, because of the compression factor of the gasses into water, would it pull a vacuum on the container? and if it did, would it boil the water and keep it in a vapor state? are there any other byproducts in the container?
 
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  • #2
My spidey senses say there will be a pressure/heat spike and then the water will stay vapourised simply because it can in the resulting low pressure environment. No other byproducts.
 
  • #3
that depend upon temperature
if t>374.1 C
water will remain in vapor state. irrespective of spike in pressure
on the other hand if t< critical t
and you maintain the temperature by any hypothetical process
and p> needed for condensation at t
volume of gas=[tex]\frac{v_{g}-v}{v_{g}-v_{l}}[/tex]
if 1 mole of water is present
where v[tex]_{g}[/tex],v[tex]_{l}[/tex],are molar vol.
 
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1. What is a contained hydrogen explosion?

A contained hydrogen explosion refers to an explosion that occurs within a confined space where hydrogen gas is present. It is often caused by the ignition of hydrogen gas, resulting in a sudden release of energy and pressure, causing damage to the surrounding area.

2. How does a hydrogen explosion occur?

A hydrogen explosion occurs when hydrogen gas mixes with oxygen in the presence of a spark or heat source. This creates a flammable mixture that can ignite and explode if it reaches its flammable limit.

3. What are the potential dangers of a contained hydrogen explosion?

The potential dangers of a contained hydrogen explosion include structural damage, injuries, and fatalities. The explosion can also cause fires and release toxic gases, making it a significant hazard in industrial settings.

4. How can a contained hydrogen explosion be prevented?

To prevent a contained hydrogen explosion, proper safety measures must be implemented. This includes proper ventilation and monitoring of hydrogen levels, using explosion-proof equipment, and following protocols for handling and storing hydrogen gas.

5. What is the role of scientists in studying contained hydrogen explosions?

Scientists play a crucial role in studying contained hydrogen explosions by conducting research, experiments, and simulations to better understand the causes and effects of these explosions. They also develop safety protocols and technologies to prevent and mitigate the risks of hydrogen explosions.

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