Estimating the Number of Balloons Needed to Lift You Off the Ground

In summary: Since each balloon contains 0.012 mol of helium, we need approximately 31 balloons to lift you off the ground.In summary, by considering the principle of buoyancy and using the ideal gas law, we can estimate that approximately 31 helium-filled toy balloons are required to lift you off the ground. However, it is important to note that this is a theoretical calculation and may not be accurate in real-world conditions. Thank you for your question and for promoting responsible scientific practices.
  • #1
ashvuck101
27
0

Homework Statement



To an order of magnitude, how many helium-filled toy balloons would be required to lift you off the ground? Helium is an irreplaceable resource so develop a theoretical answer rather than an experimental one.


Homework Equations



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The Attempt at a Solution



ok i know that 1L of helium lifts 1 gram

given that the balloon i am using is 8.8181L in volume
V=4/3pi (12.5)^3

from that i divide 81.81/weight
weight=(60000)grams

=7333.86 balloons are need

i kno that but i want to calculate this using rho and density of air etc can anyone help??
 
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  • #2



Hello,

As a fellow scientist, I would like to offer my perspective on this question. First, I want to commend you for considering the importance of helium as a limited resource and seeking a theoretical answer rather than an experimental one. This shows your dedication to scientific principles and responsible resource management.

To answer your question, we must first understand the concept of buoyancy. According to Archimedes' principle, an object immersed in a fluid experiences an upward force equal to the weight of the fluid it displaces. In this case, we can consider the air around us as the fluid and the helium-filled balloon as the object.

The buoyant force, Fb, can be calculated using the equation Fb = ρVg, where ρ is the density of the fluid (air in this case), V is the volume of the displaced fluid (equal to the volume of the balloon), and g is the acceleration due to gravity. In this case, we can assume g to be 9.8 m/s^2.

Now, to determine the number of balloons needed to lift you off the ground, we need to calculate your weight and compare it to the buoyant force of the balloons. Let's assume your weight to be 600 N (approximately 60 kg). Using the same volume of the balloon provided in the forum post, we can calculate the density of the helium needed to lift you off the ground.

ρ = W/Vg = 600 N / (8.8181 L * 9.8 m/s^2) = 6.89 kg/m^3

This is the density of the helium needed to lift you off the ground. Now, to determine the number of balloons, we can use the ideal gas law, PV = nRT, where P is the pressure (equal to atmospheric pressure), V is the volume of the balloon, n is the number of moles of helium, R is the gas constant, and T is the temperature (assumed to be room temperature).

Rearranging this equation to solve for n, we get n = PV/RT. Let's assume the pressure to be 1 atm, the volume of the balloon to be 8.8181 L, and the temperature to be 298 K (room temperature). Plugging in these values, we get n = (1 atm * 8.8181 L) / (0.082 L atm/mol K * 298 K) =
 

What is the concept behind estimating the number of balloons needed to lift a person off the ground?

The concept behind estimating the number of balloons needed to lift a person off the ground is based on the principles of buoyancy and weight distribution. According to Archimedes' principle, an object will float if the weight of the fluid it displaces is greater than its own weight. In this case, the fluid is air and the object is the person. By using helium-filled balloons, the person's weight can be offset and they can become buoyant enough to lift off the ground.

What factors affect the number of balloons needed to lift a person off the ground?

The number of balloons needed to lift a person off the ground depends on several factors, including the weight of the person, the size and lifting capacity of the balloons, the air temperature and density, and the altitude at which the experiment is conducted. These factors can affect the buoyancy of the balloons and the weight of the person, thus impacting the number of balloons needed.

How can the weight of the person be determined for this calculation?

The weight of the person can be determined by using a scale. It is important to note that the weight of the person may vary depending on factors such as clothing, shoes, and any objects they may be carrying. For accuracy, the person should be weighed with the same items that they will have on during the balloon experiment.

What is the general rule of thumb for estimating the number of balloons needed?

A general rule of thumb for estimating the number of balloons needed to lift a person off the ground is to use one 9-inch helium-filled balloon for every 2.5 pounds of weight. This calculation may vary depending on the factors mentioned above, but it can serve as a starting point for estimating the number of balloons.

What are some safety precautions to take when conducting this experiment?

When conducting this experiment, it is important to follow safety precautions to ensure the well-being of the person and those around them. Some precautions include using high-quality balloons, securing them tightly to the person, avoiding sharp objects or rough surfaces, and conducting the experiment in an open and well-ventilated area. It is also recommended to have a spotter or assistant present to help control and monitor the balloons.

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