Question

a balloon filled with nitrous oxide gas (n₂o) has a volume of 7.11 liters when squeezed. releasing the balloon causes the volume to increase to 7.25 liters and the internal pressure to decrease to 17.25 pounds per square inch (psi). what was the pressure of the n₂o gas in the balloon before it was released? assume ideal gas behavior and a constant temperature. write your answer to the correct number of significant figures. round if necessary.

Explanation:

Step1: Identify Boyle's Law formula

$P_1V_1 = P_2V_2$

Step2: Assign values

$V_1 = 7.11$ L, $V_2=7.25$ L, $P_2 = 17.25$ psi

Step3: Solve for $P_1$

$P_1=\frac{P_2V_2}{V_1}=\frac{17.25\times7.25}{7.11}$
$P_1=\frac{125.0625}{7.11}\approx17.6$ psi

Answer:

17.6 psi