In: Physics
We have a cylinder and piston similar to the one in the figure. The diameter of the piston is 3.50 cm. The distance from the bottom of the cylinder to the piston is 12.6 cm. The cylinder is filled with an ideal diatomic gas at room temperature (23.8∘C23.8∘C) and room pressure (1.00 atm).
(a)
If we push down on the piston with a force equal to 119 lb, how far can we move the piston? Consider the compression to be adiabatic, and neglect the flow of heat to the surroundings. Also neglect the weight of the piston. Caution: remember that atmospheric pressure also pushes down on the piston. The total downward force is 119 lb plus the force of atmospheric pressure. Be sure to give the distance the piston moves, not just the final height of the piston.
(b)
Repeat for an ideal monatomic gas.