Question

If a sample of neon gas occupies a volume of 2.8L at 1.8 atm. what will its volume be at 1.2 atm?

Answer 1

This problem asks us to make a comparison of the pressure and volume of a gas. The ratio of pressure and volume can be determined using Boyle's Law which is defined by the inverse relationship pressure to volume in the equation `P_iV_i = P_fV_f` when Temperature is held constant.

For this question we identify the knowns and unknowns.

`P_i = 1.8 atm`
`V_i = 2.8 L`
`P_f = 1.2 atm`
`V_i = ??? L`

The equation `P_iV_i = P_fV_f` can be rearranged algebraically to `(P_iV_i)/(P_f) = V_f`.

`((1.8 atm)(2.8L))/(1.2L) = V_f`

`V_f = 4.2L`

Notice that in Boyle's law as the pressure decreases the volume will increase as this is an inverse relationship between pressure and volume.

I hope this was helpful.
SMARTERTEACHER