Effusion Gas Leakage: Estimating the Rate of Escape Through a Hole

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of gas leaking out of a container through a hole and the use of equations to estimate the rate at which this occurs. The equations used include F = 1/4 n v and v = sqrt[8 k T/(pi m)], which can be derived from formulas in statistical mechanics textbooks. The incorrect answer given by one participant is corrected and the importance of understanding and deriving these formulas is emphasized.
  • #1
pentazoid
146
0

Homework Statement



If you poke a hole in a container full of gas, the gass will start leaking out. In this problem, you weill make a rough estimate of the rate at which gas escapes through a hole.

If we now take away this small part of the wall of the container, the molecules that would have collidedwith it will instead escape through the hole. Assuming nothing enters through the hole , show that the number N of molecules inside the cotainer as a function of time is governed by the DE equation

dN/dt=-(A/2V)*sqrt(kT/m)*N

Homework Equations



Possible equations that pertain to this problem
P=-m*(delta(v2)/delta(t))/A
vx=sqrt(kT/m)
PV=Nmvx^2

The Attempt at a Solution



PV=(-m*(delta(vx)/delta(t))/A)*V=Nmvx^2

N=((-m*(delta(vx)/delta(t))/A)*V) /mvx^2

m cancel and and I am left with :

N=((-(delta(v2)/delta(t))/A)*V) /vx^2

N=((-1/delta(t))/A)*V) /vx^1= (-V*(delta(t))/A)/(vx)

N/delta(t)= -V/A(vx)=V/(A*sqrt(kT/m))

Something is wrong with my calculating because I think I am suppose to integrate N and my A nd V are in the wrong places.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The flux of molecules is given by:

F = 1/4 n v (1)

where n is the number density and v the average velocity. This formula is always valid when the velocity dostribution is isotropic. In case of the Maxwell distribution, the average velocity is:

v = sqrt[8 k T/(pi m)] (2)

The answer should therefore be:

dN/dt = 1/4 N/V A sqrt[8 k T/(pi m)]

Clearly, the answer you were trying to derive is completely wrong in the first place.

You should study this topic from some decent statistical mechanics textbook. Formula (1) is not difficult to derive. It is a very important formula, so you should try to derive it. Formula (2) follows from a straightforward integration of Maxwell's velocity distribution.
 
  • #3
Count Iblis said:
The flux of molecules is given by:

F = 1/4 n v (1)

where n is the number density and v the average velocity. This formula is always valid when the velocity dostribution is isotropic. In case of the Maxwell distribution, the average velocity is:

v = sqrt[8 k T/(pi m)] (2)

The answer should therefore be:

dN/dt = 1/4 N/V A sqrt[8 k T/(pi m)]

Clearly, the answer you were trying to derive is completely wrong in the first place.

You should study this topic from some decent statistical mechanics textbook. Formula (1) is not difficult to derive. It is a very important formula, so you should try to derive it. Formula (2) follows from a straightforward integration of Maxwell's velocity distribution.
wait , how did you derived equations(1) and (2)? Your answer is wrong ; dN/dt=-V/A(vx)=V/(A*sqrt(kT/m))
 

Related to Effusion Gas Leakage: Estimating the Rate of Escape Through a Hole

What is effusion gas leakage?

Effusion gas leakage is the escape of gas through a hole or opening in a confined space. This can occur in various industrial and scientific settings, such as gas pipelines, storage tanks, or laboratory experiments.

Why is it important to estimate the rate of escape through a hole?

Estimating the rate of escape through a hole is important for several reasons. It can help determine the level of risk posed by the leakage, as well as the potential impact on the environment and surrounding areas. It can also aid in the development of effective strategies for containment and remediation.

What factors affect the rate of effusion gas leakage?

The rate of effusion gas leakage can be influenced by various factors, including the size and shape of the hole, the pressure and temperature of the gas, and the properties of the surrounding environment. Other factors such as the type of gas and its chemical properties can also play a role.

How is the rate of escape through a hole estimated?

The rate of escape through a hole can be estimated using mathematical equations, such as the Bernoulli's equation or the Torricelli's law. These equations take into account factors such as the gas pressure, hole size, and gas flow rate to calculate the rate of leakage.

What measures can be taken to prevent or control effusion gas leakage?

Preventive measures for effusion gas leakage may include regular maintenance and inspection of equipment, as well as the use of high-quality materials and construction methods. In the event of a leakage, measures such as sealing the hole, using absorbent materials, or implementing emergency response protocols may be taken to control the situation.

Similar threads

  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
870
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
902
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
4K
Back
Top