Gas Lighter than Air for Balloon Flight: Helium, Hydrogen, Hot air?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the use of gases lighter than air for balloon flight, specifically helium, hydrogen, and hot air. It establishes that helium is the most effective gas for lift, while hydrogen, although lighter, poses safety concerns. The calculation of lift involves determining the density difference between the gas and air, with the formula incorporating the balloon's volume and gravitational acceleration. Nitrogen is mentioned as a less effective option due to its similar density to air.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gas densities and buoyancy principles
  • Familiarity with basic physics concepts, particularly gravitational force
  • Knowledge of balloon volume calculations
  • Awareness of safety considerations regarding hydrogen use
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of helium and hydrogen for balloon applications
  • Learn how to calculate lift using the density difference formula
  • Explore safety measures for using hydrogen in ballooning
  • Investigate alternative gases and their lifting capabilities
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Aerospace engineers, hobbyist balloonists, educators in physics, and anyone interested in the principles of buoyancy and gas properties for flight applications.

astraton2001
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well, don't really know if it's physics or chemical...

gas lighter than air, to be used in a balloon who can fly up by itself.
I only know 3 types: helium, hydrogen, hot air

Are there other, can be used in a ballon?

And how can I calculate how much updrift the gas creates or better, how much weight can how much gas raise?

What is the best gas to be used? I mean, the less gas needed, but the most updrift generated.

Any suggestions?
 
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The next lightest gas, after Helium, is Nitrogen. Since air is mostly Nitrogen, you aren't going to get much lift from it!

To calculate the lift from Hydrogen or Helium, you will have to subtract its density from that of air (only slightly more than the density of Nitrogen). Multiplying that difference times the volume of the balloon (multiplying also by g if you used mass density rather than weight density- which is very likely) will give the upward force on the balloon.
 

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