Finding the Pressure inside a lighter

[Tugberk]

Homework Statement

I need to do an experiment to verify the gas constant R and I can only use a lighter. The equation useful is PV=nRT but I don't know how I can find the pressure inside the lighter. Any help is appreciated! :D

Homework Equations

I don't know what other equation might be used other than PV=nRT

 

[ptolema]

You may be able to use combined gas law to solve this. Does you experimental design allow for the construction of a manometer?

 

[Borek]

There is no need to measure the pressure inside the lighter. Besides, it won't help, as the gas inside is in a liquid form, so it doesn't obey the ideal gas law.

 

[Tugberk]

There is no need to measure the pressure inside the lighter. Besides, it won't help, as the gas inside is in a liquid form, so it doesn't obey the ideal gas law.

Yeah that's right, but I found a way to do it so it's all good now :)

 

[DeeNos]

Great question! To find the pressure inside a lighter, you can use a method called "pressure-volume" or "PV" analysis. This method involves measuring the volume of the lighter and the amount of gas it contains, and then using the ideal gas law (PV=nRT) to calculate the pressure.

Here's how you can do the experiment:

1. First, make sure the lighter is completely empty of gas. You can do this by pressing the gas release button until no more gas comes out.

2. Next, measure the volume of the lighter. You can do this by filling a container with water and then submerging the lighter in it. The amount of water that overflows is equal to the volume of the lighter.

3. Then, refill the lighter with gas. You can do this by using a refill canister or by pressing the gas release button for a few seconds.

4. Once the lighter is full of gas, measure the amount of gas it contains. This can be done by using a gas pressure gauge or by estimating the volume of the gas inside the lighter.

5. Finally, plug the values into the ideal gas law (PV=nRT) and solve for pressure (P). Remember to convert the volume and temperature values to standard units (m^3 and Kelvin) before solving.

By following these steps, you should be able to find the pressure inside the lighter. Keep in mind that this method assumes the gas inside the lighter behaves ideally, so your results may vary slightly. Good luck with your experiment!