Solving the Mystery of Deriving O2 Concentration in H2/O2 Mixture

In summary, the problem states that in a spherical vessel with a mixture of hydrogen and oxygen, the concentration of oxygen can be derived to be P/3RT, with P as the total pressure, R as the gas constant, and T as the temperature. This is possible if we assume that n, the concentration per unit volume, is equal to the moles of oxygen and the mixture is stoichiometric. The general gas law can also be rearranged to calculate concentration, where the concentration is equal to P/3RT. This raises the question of where the '3' in the equation comes from, as the general gas law defines the system for all gases.
  • #1
Tigrisje
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In a spherical vessel with a hydrogen H2 and oxygen mixture O2 it is stated in a problem that we can derive that the concentration of oxygen [O2] can be derived to be:

P / 3RT. With P the total pressure, R the gas constant en T temperature?

How on Earth is this possible? I thought the ideal gas law stated that p = n R T (with n the concentration per unit volume). Any help?
 
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  • #2
Tigrisje said:
In a spherical vessel with a hydrogen H2 and oxygen mixture O2 it is stated in a problem that we can derive that the concentration of oxygen [O2] can be derived to be:

P / 3RT. With P the total pressure, R the gas constant en T temperature?

How on Earth is this possible? I thought the ideal gas law stated that p = n R T (with n the concentration per unit volume). Any help?

It would depend on how you define 'n'. It is usually defined as total moles of gas. In this case it is a mixture of H2 and O2. If we let n = moles of oxygen AND we assume that the mixture is stoichiometric (ie. 2H2 + O2) you get the result you posted.

See if you can rearrange the general equation, n = PV/RT into a concentration (moles per liter), concentration = P/3RT. If the general gas law only defines the system for all gases, where does that '3' come from?
 

Related to Solving the Mystery of Deriving O2 Concentration in H2/O2 Mixture

1. What is the purpose of solving the mystery of deriving O2 concentration in H2/O2 mixture?

The purpose of this research is to understand the chemical reactions and processes involved in the production of oxygen gas from a mixture of hydrogen and oxygen. This knowledge can help improve the efficiency and safety of industrial processes that use these gases, such as fuel cells and welding.

2. What are the current methods for determining O2 concentration in H2/O2 mixture?

The most common method is to use gas sensors that detect the presence and concentration of oxygen. Another method is to use gas chromatography, which separates the gases in the mixture and measures their individual concentrations.

3. What challenges are faced in deriving O2 concentration in H2/O2 mixture?

One of the main challenges is the potential for explosions or fires due to the highly reactive nature of hydrogen and oxygen. Another challenge is accurately measuring the concentrations in real-time, as the mixture may be constantly changing. Additionally, the presence of impurities or other gases in the mixture can affect the accuracy of the measurements.

4. How can solving this mystery benefit industries and society?

Understanding the process of deriving O2 concentration in H2/O2 mixture can lead to improvements in the safety and efficiency of industrial processes that use these gases. This can also have positive impacts on the environment by reducing emissions and waste from these industries. Additionally, this knowledge can contribute to advancements in alternative energy sources and technology.

5. What potential future research directions can be taken from this study?

Future research can focus on developing more accurate and efficient methods for measuring O2 concentration in H2/O2 mixture, as well as exploring the potential for using these gases in new industries or applications. This research can also lead to a better understanding of the chemistry behind these reactions and potentially uncover new insights or discoveries.

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