Calculating Oxygen Cylinder Duration

In summary, the problem asks for the length of time a standard cylinder of oxygen, with a gauge pressure of 2.0E3 psi and a volume of 16 L at 295 K, will last if the flow rate is constant at 1.8 L/min. To solve this, the equations PV=nRT and n=m/M are used, along with the fact that flow rate is equal to volume over time. By assuming that the gas is delivered at atmospheric pressure and outside temperature, the volume at atmospheric pressure can be found and used to calculate the time the cylinder will last based on the given flow rate.
  • #1
bpw91284
67
0

Homework Statement



A standard cylinder of oxygen used in a hospital has gauge pressure = 2.0E3 psi (1.38E4 kPa) and
volume = 16 L (0.016 m3) at T = 295 K. How long will the cylinder last if the flow rate, measured at atmospheric pressure, is
constant at 1.8 L/min?


Homework Equations



PV=nRT
n=m/M
flowrate=volume/time

The Attempt at a Solution



I assume it's not as simple as 16/1.8?

I used PV=(m/M)RT to solve for mass, but that got me no where.
 
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  • #2
The gas in the cylinder is under pressure. So it is equivalent to many more liters at atomospheric pressure. Find out how many and then it is as simple as you think.
 
  • #3
Dick said:
The gas in the cylinder is under pressure. So it is equivalent to many more liters at atomospheric pressure. Find out how many and then it is as simple as you think.

So nRT is constant correct?

So (PV)_inside=(PV)_outside?

(1.38*10^4kPa)(.016m^3)=(P_atmosphere)(V)

Solve for V, then use that in t=V/flowrate?

Thanks,
Brandon
 
  • #4
you may have to use calculus to solve this
 
  • #5
proton said:
you may have to use calculus to solve this

No, it's the lowest level physics class.
 
  • #6
bpw91284 said:
No, it's the lowest level physics class.

Right. Just assume the gas is delivered at atmospheric pressure and outside temperature.
 

FAQ: Calculating Oxygen Cylinder Duration

1. How do I calculate the duration of oxygen in a cylinder?

To calculate the duration of oxygen in a cylinder, you will need to know the volume of the cylinder in liters and the flow rate of the oxygen in liters per minute. Then, divide the volume of the cylinder by the flow rate to determine the duration in minutes. For example, if you have a 2,000 liter cylinder and a flow rate of 10 liters per minute, the duration would be 200 minutes.

2. What is the formula for calculating oxygen cylinder duration?

The formula for calculating oxygen cylinder duration is: Duration (in minutes) = Cylinder Volume (in liters) / Flow Rate (in liters per minute).

3. What is the standard flow rate for oxygen in a cylinder?

The standard flow rate for oxygen in a cylinder is typically 2 liters per minute. However, this may vary depending on the specific needs of the patient and the type of oxygen therapy being administered.

4. Can I use the same formula for calculating oxygen cylinder duration for different types of cylinders?

Yes, the same formula can be used for calculating oxygen cylinder duration for different types of cylinders as long as you have the volume of the cylinder in liters and the flow rate in liters per minute. However, keep in mind that the duration may vary depending on the size and type of cylinder.

5. Are there any factors that can affect the accuracy of the calculation for oxygen cylinder duration?

Yes, there are a few factors that can affect the accuracy of the calculation for oxygen cylinder duration. These include changes in the flow rate, changes in the patient's breathing pattern, and leaks in the cylinder or delivery system. It is important to regularly monitor and adjust the flow rate to ensure accurate calculations.

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