Quality needed to pass through critical point (thermodynamics)

In summary, to make the P-v diagram pass through the critical point, the quality (x1) of the saturated liquid and vapor mixture in the rigid tank needs to be found using the equation v=vf + x*vfg and the saturation tables. The tank should also have a specific volume of 0.003155 [m^3/kg] to ensure that the P-v diagram passes through the critical point.
  • #1
General_Sax
446
0

Homework Statement


A rigid tank contains 1 kg of saturated liquid and saturated vapor mixture at 400
kPa. What quality (x1) do you need if you want the P-v diagram to pass through
the critical point? Use steam tables to answer this question.


Homework Equations


x = quality = [mass(gas)]/[mass(gas + liquid)]

critical specific volume = 0.003155 [m^3/kg]

The Attempt at a Solution


Now to me the question seems meaningless, because the rigid tank will contain a constant volume and a constant mass, so it will have a constant specific volume.

The quality upon the approach to the critical point will vary with pressure... so really you just need to ensure that the tank has a specific volume of 0.003155 [m^3/kg] and the the P-v diagram will pass through the critical point.

Have I overlooked something?
 
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  • #2
Try the equation v=vf + x*vfg for saturated liquid-vapor mixtures, you can use the saturation tables to find vf and vfg
 

Related to Quality needed to pass through critical point (thermodynamics)

1. What is the critical point in thermodynamics?

The critical point in thermodynamics is the state where a substance undergoes a phase transition from a liquid to a gas at a specific temperature and pressure. At this point, the properties of the substance, such as density and heat capacity, undergo significant changes.

2. Why is quality important in passing through the critical point?

Quality, also known as vapor quality, is a measure of the ratio of vapor mass to the total mass of a substance. In order to successfully pass through the critical point, the substance must have a specific quality value. This is because passing through the critical point requires a balance between liquid and vapor phases, and the quality value ensures this balance is achieved.

3. How does the critical point affect the behavior of a substance?

The critical point is a defining point for a substance, as it marks the limit of its liquid and gas phases. Beyond the critical point, the substance exists as a supercritical fluid, which exhibits properties of both a liquid and a gas. This unique behavior can have significant impacts on processes involving the substance, such as in power generation and chemical reactions.

4. Can a substance pass through the critical point in both directions?

Yes, a substance can pass through the critical point in both directions, depending on changes in temperature and pressure. When a substance is heated and its pressure is increased, it can pass from the liquid phase to the gas phase at the critical point. Conversely, if the substance is cooled and its pressure is decreased, it can pass from the gas phase to the liquid phase at the critical point.

5. How is the critical point determined for a substance?

The critical point of a substance can be determined experimentally by plotting its temperature and pressure values on a phase diagram. The point at which the liquid-vapor phase boundary ends, known as the critical point, can then be identified. This point can also be calculated using equations that take into account the substance's critical temperature and pressure values.

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