Exploring Temperature & Pressure: Why Does Water Rise in Test Tube?

In summary, the water rises in the test tube when a burning candle is placed over it due to the decrease in gas volume as the candle uses up oxygen and produces carbon dioxide. This increase in temperature and decrease in volume leads to the water rising in the test tube.
  • #1
rdgt3000
8
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Why is it that when you place a test tube over a burning candle in a peatree dish with water, that the candle goes out and then the water from the dish rises into the test tube. Mainly what are the reasons that the water rises. I am kind of going with the "temperature and pressure are related" idea but I am not quite sure if that is right. Thanks for the help!
 
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  • #2
My guess is that by closing up the system, the temperature increases, compensated by the dramatic decrease in volume.
 
  • #3
Candle uses all oxygen and goes off. Produced carbon dioxide solves in water and that's why gas volume in the test tube decreases - and water goes up.
 
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FAQ: Exploring Temperature & Pressure: Why Does Water Rise in Test Tube?

Why does water rise in a test tube when heated?

Water rises in a test tube when heated because of the relationship between temperature and pressure. As the temperature of the water increases, the molecules begin to move faster and spread out, causing an increase in pressure. This pressure pushes the water up the test tube.

Does the amount of water in the test tube affect the rise?

Yes, the amount of water in the test tube does affect the rise. The more water there is, the more molecules there are to increase in temperature and cause an increase in pressure. This will result in a higher rise in the test tube.

Can the type of test tube used affect the rise of water?

Yes, the type of test tube used can affect the rise of water. The material and shape of the test tube can affect the heat transfer and pressure buildup in the water, ultimately affecting the height of the water rise. For example, a test tube with a wider opening may allow for more heat transfer and result in a higher rise.

How does the surrounding air pressure impact the rise of water in a test tube?

The surrounding air pressure does not directly impact the rise of water in a test tube. However, it can indirectly affect the temperature of the water and therefore, the rise. For example, at higher elevations where the air pressure is lower, water will boil at a lower temperature, resulting in a lower rise in the test tube.

Is there a limit to how high the water will rise in the test tube?

Yes, there is a limit to how high the water will rise in the test tube. This is determined by the balance between the pressure created by the heated water and the surrounding air pressure. Once this balance is reached, the water will stop rising in the test tube.

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