Why Gases are Not Commercially Sold by Volume

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Gases are not commercially sold by volume primarily because their volume can fluctuate with changes in temperature and pressure, making it difficult to establish a consistent measurement. The consensus among participants is that option e) accurately captures this issue. While gas is measured in volumetric terms for practical applications, such as in compressed air installations, it is understood that these measurements are based on standard conditions. Some participants criticize the question as poorly framed, suggesting that it reflects a lack of practical understanding. Ultimately, the variability of gas volume under different conditions is the key reason for this selling approach.
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Which one of the following statements best explains why gases are not comercially sold by volume?

a)Gas volume is neligible
b)Gas volume is difficult to measure
c)Gas volume depends on the type of gas
d)Gases have comparitviely low densities
e)Gas volume depends on temperature and pressure

The question is asking why aren't they sold by volume. Because the volume of a gas could change due to pressure and temperature changes would be my answer. e). I may have just answered my own question.
 
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Yes you have.
 
KingTutATL said:
Which one of the following statements best explains why gases are not comercially sold by volume?

a)Gas volume is neligible
b)Gas volume is difficult to measure
c)Gas volume depends on the type of gas
d)Gases have comparitviely low densities
e)Gas volume depends on temperature and pressure

The question is asking why aren't they sold by volume. Because the volume of a gas could change due to pressure and temperature changes would be my answer. e). I may have just answered my own question.

For the public knowledge I must say that in compressed air installations engineers usually refer to the air flow in m^3/s. Even though it is a volumetric measure of gas, it is understood by all of us that the volume is referred to Normal conditions (sometimes called Normal-cubic meters per second).
 
KingTutATL said:
Which one of the following statements best explains why gases are not comercially sold by volume?

a)Gas volume is neligible
b)Gas volume is difficult to measure
c)Gas volume depends on the type of gas
d)Gases have comparitviely low densities
e)Gas volume depends on temperature and pressure

The question is asking why aren't they sold by volume. Because the volume of a gas could change due to pressure and temperature changes would be my answer. e). I may have just answered my own question.
Gas is sold to consumers by volume. That is how the gas meters work. I think they regulate the pressure and adjust for temperature.

AM
 
It's a poor question, but the answer they are looking for is clearly "e". (Another "textbook" problem created by a well-meaning instructor who just doesn't have the practical knowledge.)
 
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