Calculating the Final Volume

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 29 views

Introduction

In thermodynamics, the relationship between the volume of a gas and its temperature is governed by Charles' Law. This law states that, at constant pressure, the volume of a gas is directly proportional to its temperature in Kelvin. Mathematically, this can be expressed as:

${ \frac{V_1}{T_1} = \frac{V_2}{T_2} }$

where $V_1$ and $V_2$ are the initial and final volumes, and $T_1$ and $T_2$ are the initial and final temperatures in Kelvin.

Given Data

The given data for this problem are:

Initial temperature, $T_1 = 491 \text{ K}$
Initial volume, $V_1 = 524 \text{ cm}^3$
Final temperature, $T_2 = 297 \text{ K}$
Final volume, $V_2$ (to be calculated)

Applying Charles' Law

Using Charles' Law, we can rearrange the equation to solve for the final volume, $V_2$ :

${ V_2 = V_1 \times \frac{T_2}{T_1} }$

Substituting the given values, we get:

${ V_2 = 524 \text{ cm}^3 \times \frac{297 \text{ K}}{491 \text{ K}} }$

Calculating the Final Volume

Now, let's perform the calculation:

${ V_2 = 524 \text{ cm}^3 \times \frac{297 \text{ K}}{491 \text{ K}} }$ ${ V_2 = 524 \text{ cm}^3 \times 0.604 }$ ${ V_2 = 316.67 \text{ cm}^3 }$

Conclusion

Therefore, when 524 cm³ of a gas at 491 K is cooled to 297 K, the final volume is approximately 316.67 cm³.

Real-World Applications

This concept of Charles' Law has numerous real-world applications in various fields, including:

Aerospace Engineering: Understanding the relationship between temperature and volume is crucial in designing aircraft and spacecraft systems.
Chemical Engineering: Charles' Law is used in the design of chemical reactors and process equipment.
Medical Applications: The concept of Charles' Law is applied in medical devices such as ventilators and anesthesia machines.

Limitations of Charles' Law

While Charles' Law is a fundamental principle in thermodynamics, it has some limitations. It assumes that the gas is ideal and that the pressure remains constant. In reality, gases are not ideal, and pressure changes can affect the volume of the gas. Therefore, Charles' Law should be used with caution and in conjunction with other thermodynamic principles.

Future Research Directions

Further research is needed to explore the applications of Charles' Law in emerging fields such as:

Nanotechnology: Understanding the behavior of gases at the nanoscale is crucial in the development of nanomaterials and nanodevices.
Biotechnology: The application of Charles' Law in biotechnology can lead to the development of new medical devices and therapies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the volume of a gas is directly proportional to its temperature in Kelvin, as governed by Charles' Law. By applying this law, we can calculate the final volume of a gas when its temperature is changed. The concept of Charles' Law has numerous real-world applications and limitations, and further research is needed to explore its applications in emerging fields.