[Thermo] Derivation of compressibility factor vs reduced pressure

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on deriving the compressibility factor (Z) as a function of reduced pressure (Pr) and temperature (Tr) using the Van der Waals equation of state. The user expresses frustration after spending 12 hours trying to understand the derivation without using specific values for critical pressure or temperature. It is suggested to use experimental data from gases like propane, with known critical properties, to generate a graph. The process involves varying pressure and solving for specific volume to plot Z against Tr and Pr. The user also inquires about solving a cubic equation related to the compressibility factor.
-Nita
Messages
2
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


derivation of compressibility factor vs. reduced pressure
I am supposed to derive the graph by solving equations
Diagramma_generalizzato_fattore_di_compressibilit%C3%A0.jpg



Homework Equations


Van der Waals equation of state
compressibility factor, Z = (Pv)/(RT)
reduced pressure = P/critical pressure
Z = f(Tr, Pr)


The Attempt at a Solution


I sat for 12 hours attempting to find a solution but just spent time trying to understand what I was doing instead.
Is there a way to get the graph mathematically without using any values for critical pressure or temperature?

Thank you!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Compressibility charts are derived from experimental data from 10 gases such as propane, Nitrogen, Carbon Dioxide etc. Select a gas you have properties for such as propane. Tc propane is 370 K. Pc propane is 42.7 bar. Assume a constant temperature of let's say 555 K to generate the Tr=1.5 line. Vary pressure from 42.7 to 300 bars (Pr 1 to 6). Use propane tables to find v (specific volume) solve for Z. Plot Tr(Z,Pr)
 
After solving the Van der Waals equation for the compressibility factor and
deriving the critical temperature, pressure, and volume

knowing that a horizontal inflection point occurs on the isotherm at critical point

am I supposed to solve PV3-(Pb+RT)V2+aV-ab=0
for the cubic root?
 
Back
Top