Did I Convert 5 Pounds of Nitroglycerin to Moles Correctly?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the conversion of 5 pounds of nitroglycerin to moles and the subsequent calculation of the total volume of gases produced from its detonation. It includes aspects of stoichiometry and the ideal gas law, specifically focusing on the assumptions regarding temperature and pressure.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes their method of converting 5 pounds of nitroglycerin to moles by multiplying by 453 grams and dividing by the molar mass of nitroglycerin.
  • Another participant confirms that the conversion to moles was done correctly.
  • A different participant raises a question about the appropriate temperature and pressure to use in the calculations.
  • Another reply suggests that standard temperature and pressure (STP) should be assumed when no other information is provided.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is agreement on the correctness of the conversion to moles, but there is uncertainty regarding the appropriate temperature and pressure to use for the calculations, with differing assumptions presented.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the specific molar mass of nitroglycerin or the exact conditions for temperature and pressure, which may affect the calculations.

ngu9997
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Homework Statement


5 lbs of nitroglycerin detonates. What is the total volume of the gases produced?

Homework Equations


PV=nRT

The Attempt at a Solution


I used the balance chemical equation of the decomposition of nitroglycerin and used stoichiometry to find the number of moles of nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide added them all and put the number of moles into PV=nRT. The only thing I'm unsure about is how to convert 5 pounds of nitroglycerin into moles. I multiplied 5 pounds by 453 grams then divided by nitroglycerin's molar mass. Did i convert to moles correctly?
 
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ngu9997 said:
I multiplied 5 pounds by 453 grams then divided by nitroglycerin's molar mass. Did i convert to moles correctly?

Yes.
 
The real question is what temperature and pressure are you supposed to use?
 
When nothing else is given, I would assume STP.
 

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