Molar mass= xCalculating Molar Mass of an Ideal Gas

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the molar mass of an ideal gas using the ideal gas law, specifically addressing a homework problem involving a gas sample's mass, volume, temperature, and pressure. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and technical explanation of the ideal gas law.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the problem and sets up the equation using the ideal gas law, suggesting that the number of moles can be expressed as n = 0.622g/x.
  • Another participant clarifies that the molar mass can be solved for by rearranging the equation and emphasizes the importance of unit conversion for R.
  • Several participants express confusion about determining the number of moles and the necessity of the entire PV=nRT formula, with one participant correcting a previous statement about needing to know the number of moles.
  • There is a discussion about the value of the gas constant R, with one participant confirming its constant nature and providing its value.
  • Participants discuss unit conversions, specifically converting mL to L and mm Hg to atm, to ensure correct application of the ideal gas law.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the use of the ideal gas law and the importance of unit conversions, but there is some confusion regarding the necessity of knowing the number of moles, which remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include potential misunderstandings about the application of the ideal gas law and the need for unit conversions, as well as the initial confusion regarding the number of moles.

Who May Find This Useful

Students studying chemistry or physics, particularly those learning about the ideal gas law and molar mass calculations.

UWMpanther
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[SOLVED] Solving for molar mass

Homework Statement


What is the molar mass of an ideal gas if a 0.622g sample of this gas occupies a volume of 300mL at 35*C and 789mm Hg?


Homework Equations


PV = nRT


The Attempt at a Solution


So n= no. moles present
So I assumed n=.622/x

so : x= .622gRT/PV
 
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n=\frac{grams}{\frac{grams}{mole}}=\frac{grams}{M}

Solve for big M.

Make sure you convert all your units, R has the units:

R=\frac{L*atm}{K*mol}
 
Last edited:
Ok so I am very confused here. How do I know how many moles I have? And do I need the entire PV= nRT formula?
 
UWMpanther said:
Ok so I am very confused here. How do I know how many moles I have? And do I need the entire PV= nRT formula?
You do not need to know how many moles there are. I accidentally mistyped it, hopefully you see that I fixed it.

Eventually, you will end up with the units g/mol, and you'll be fine from there.

And yes, you need the entire equation, because R will allow you to attain the units moles and it will cancel out the other ones you do not need.
 
is R not a constant? 0.08206 L\ atm\ mol^-^1\ K^-^1


so M=\frac {grams\ast R\ast T} {P\ast V}

convert 3mL to .300L and 789mm Hg to 1.038atm
 
No R is a constant, I'm not sure what I said to imply it wasn't but it is.

You're answer is correct, you get g/mol once you cancel out common units.
 
Thank you very much!
 

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