Ideal gas law, What stands for P

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SUMMARY

The ideal gas law, represented by the equation PV=nRT, defines P as the pressure exerted by the gas itself, not the atmospheric pressure. In the context of a helium-filled balloon, the pressure measured is specifically that of the helium gas. This distinction is crucial for accurate calculations and applications of the ideal gas law.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the ideal gas law (PV=nRT)
  • Knowledge of gas properties (pressure, volume, temperature)
  • Familiarity with basic thermodynamics
  • Experience with experimental gas measurements
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of gas pressure in real-world applications
  • Explore the differences between absolute pressure and gauge pressure
  • Learn about the behavior of gases under varying temperature and pressure conditions
  • Investigate the limitations of the ideal gas law in non-ideal conditions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying chemistry or physics, educators teaching gas laws, and professionals in fields requiring gas behavior analysis.

kougou
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the ideal gas law, PV=nRT, I have question about the parameter P.
Does P stands for the pressure exert by the gas or the atmospheric pressure?


Say helium gases are enclosed inside a balloon. Then it gives pressure, temperature, and volume data to use the gas law. Does the pressure refer to the pressure of helium or the atmospheric pressure?
 
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It's the pressure of the gas.
 

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