How Does the Ideal Gas Law Explain the Crushing of a Can?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of the Ideal Gas Law to explain the phenomenon of a crushed can during a simple science experiment. When the heated can is inverted into cold water, the rapid cooling causes a significant drop in pressure inside the can, leading to external atmospheric pressure crushing the can. The Ideal Gas Law (PV=nRT) is directly applicable, illustrating how temperature and pressure changes affect gas volume. Observations confirm that the boiling water creates steam, which condenses quickly upon contact with cold water, resulting in a vacuum effect that crushes the can.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Ideal Gas Law (PV=nRT)
  • Basic knowledge of phase changes in water (boiling and condensation)
  • Familiarity with pressure concepts (atmospheric pressure vs. internal pressure)
  • Experience with simple laboratory experiments and safety protocols
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between temperature and pressure in gases using the Ideal Gas Law
  • Explore phase transitions and their effects on pressure in closed systems
  • Investigate real-world applications of the Ideal Gas Law in engineering and meteorology
  • Learn about experimental design and safety measures in laboratory settings
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students in physics and chemistry, educators conducting experiments on gas laws, and anyone interested in understanding the practical applications of thermodynamics in everyday phenomena.

Kelly-Anne
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Homework Statement


Fill the sauce pan with tap water. Set it close to the stove.
Place about 2 tablespoons of water into the empty can.
Heat the can on the stove until the water inside boils. This will not take long. You will see water vapor coming out of the top of the can when it is boiling.
Pick up the can with the tongs, immediately turn it upside down, then place the can in the water and pan.


Homework Equations



1. What happened when you put the can in the water?

2. Why did this happen? Make sure you relate why this happened to the changes in pressure inside and outside the can.

3. Why did you have to turn the can upside down?

4. What gas law would account for what happened?

5. Explain how your choice of this gas law is supported by your observations.
 
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So, what you have seen when doing the experiment?
 

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