Equilibrium in a closed pop bottle

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of equilibrium in the context of a sealed versus an opened pop bottle, exploring thermodynamic, mechanical, and chemical interpretations of equilibrium. Participants examine the behavior of dissolved CO2 in these scenarios and the implications of opening the bottle.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that the term "equilibrium" may have multiple interpretations across different disciplines, including thermodynamic and mechanical definitions.
  • One participant proposes that a closed bottle's properties are less affected by external conditions, leading to a more stable state compared to an open bottle.
  • Another participant questions whether any changes are observed in the contents of a closed bottle versus an open one.
  • There is a suggestion that the equilibrium of dissolved CO2 is relevant to the discussion, particularly in the context of a closed bottle.
  • One participant notes that the question pertains to a grade 12 level and mentions a lack of familiarity with Henry's Law, indicating a possible gap in understanding related to gas solubility.
  • Participants discuss the behavior of CO2 when a soda bottle is opened, noting that CO2 rushes out and questioning whether this indicates a state of equilibrium.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the definition and implications of equilibrium, with no consensus reached on the specific meanings or conditions under which a sealed or opened bottle can be considered in equilibrium.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the definitions of equilibrium are not fully explored, and there are references to concepts like Henry's Law that may not be universally understood among participants.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to students studying thermodynamics, chemistry, or physics, particularly those exploring concepts of equilibrium and gas behavior in closed systems.

pinkyjoshi65
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Why is a sealed pop bottle said to be in a state of equilibrium, while an opened bottle is not?
 
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This is a bit of a semantic problem.

Thermodynamically, a system can only be in equilibrium with another system (this is, in fact, used to define temperature, the basic variable in thermodynamics).
Mechanically, a system is in equilibrium if the function that describes it does not change with time.
There is also chemical equilibrium and a host of other interpretations - I'm sure other disciplines have their own definitions of "equilibrium" as well. I'm not sure which meaning your usage carries, so I can't really give you a full answer.

My guess is that by "equilibrium" the statement refers to "stationary", i.e., a system whose variables do not change in time appreciably. If that is the case, the closed bottle's properties (temperature, e.g.) are much less affected by the external surroundings compared to the open bottle and are therefore "constant to a degree".

--------
Assaf
http://www.physicallyincorrect.com/"
 
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Do you observe any changes to the contents of a closed pop bottle? How about the contents of an open one?
 
ozymandias said:
This is a bit of a semantic problem.

Thermodynamically, a system can only be in equilibrium with another system (this is, in fact, used to define temperature, the basic variable in thermodynamics).
Mechanically, a system is in equilibrium if the function that describes it does not change with time.
There is also chemical equilibrium and a host of other interpretations - I'm sure other disciplines have their own definitions of "equilibrium" as well. I'm not sure which meaning your usage carries, so I can't really give you a full answer.

I think pinky's question refers to the equilibrium of dissolved CO2 in the system.
 
Arrrgh, after typing so much :smile:.

--------
Assaf
http://www.physicallyincorrect.com/"
 
Last edited by a moderator:
um..so in a sealed pop bottle, what happens to the dissolved co2? it definitely stays in..any idea?
 
What grade/level is this at?

What do you know about Henry's Law?
 
this is a grade 12 question. I have not studied about Henry's Law..This has to do with the elements inside the bottle I am guessing. If a closed bottle is at equi, then the components keep on forming again and again.
 
Describe what happens when you open a bottle of pop. BTW, we call that 'soda' down here in Texas.
 
  • #10
when a soda bottle is opened, Co2 rushes out..
 
  • #11
pinkyjoshi65 said:
when a soda bottle is opened, Co2 rushes out..

After the initial pressure is released, what happens? Does this seem like it is in equilibrium?
 

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