Calculating Balloon Filling Capacity Using Gas Laws

In summary, the ideal gas law is a mathematical equation that describes the relationship between pressure, volume, temperature, and amount of gas. It is useful for understanding how gases behave when filling balloons. Balloons deflate over time due to the process of diffusion. The relationship between temperature and the amount of gas in a balloon is that as temperature increases, the volume of gas also increases. Changing the pressure of a gas inside a balloon can affect its size in two ways. It is possible to fill a balloon with a gas other than air, such as helium, hydrogen, or nitrogen. However, caution should be taken when using certain gases.
  • #1
icystrike
445
1

Homework Statement



4. A small cylinder of helium gas used for filling balloons has a volume of 2.3 L and a pressure of 13,800 kPa at 25oC. How many balloons can you fill if each one has a volume of 1.5 L and a pressure of 1.25 atm at 25oC?

The answer they gave me is 1672.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


[tex]P_{1}V_{1}=P_{2}V_{2}[/tex]
Since n, R, T remain constant.

2.3 x 13800 = 1.25 x 101.3 x V
V=250.66...
[tex]\frac{250.66...}{1.5}\approx167.1[/tex]
 
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  • #2
Seems like you are right, they are wrong.
 

1. What is the ideal gas law and how does it relate to filling balloons?

The ideal gas law is a mathematical equation that describes the relationship between pressure, volume, temperature, and amount of gas. It can be written as PV = nRT, where P is pressure, V is volume, n is the number of moles of gas, R is the ideal gas constant, and T is temperature. This law is useful for understanding how gases behave when filling balloons, as changes in any of these variables can affect the amount of gas that can be contained in the balloon.

2. Why do balloons deflate over time?

Balloons deflate over time due to the process of diffusion. The gas particles inside the balloon are constantly moving and colliding with each other and the walls of the balloon. As time goes on, some of these gas particles will escape through small pores in the balloon material, causing the balloon to deflate.

3. What is the relationship between temperature and the amount of gas in a balloon?

According to the ideal gas law, as temperature increases, the volume of gas also increases. This means that at higher temperatures, a balloon will be able to hold more gas before reaching its maximum capacity. However, it's important to note that this relationship only holds true if pressure and amount of gas remain constant.

4. How does changing the pressure affect the size of a balloon?

Changing the pressure of a gas inside a balloon can affect its size in two ways. If the pressure inside the balloon is increased, the gas particles will push against the walls of the balloon with more force, causing it to expand. On the other hand, if the pressure is decreased, the gas particles will have less force and the balloon will deflate.

5. Is it possible to fill a balloon with a gas other than air?

Yes, it is possible to fill a balloon with a gas other than air. In fact, many balloons are filled with helium, which is less dense than air and causes the balloon to float. Other gases, such as hydrogen and nitrogen, can also be used to fill balloons. However, it's important to consider the safety and potential hazards of using certain gases before filling a balloon with them.

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