Question

a sample of chlorine gas (cl₂) is transferred from a 5.00 - liter cylinder to an empty 12.5 - liter tank. after transfer, the pressure in the 12.5 - liter tank is 5.40 pounds per square inch (psi). what was the initial pressure of the cl₂ gas inside the cylinder? 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

$V_1 = 5.00$ L, $V_2=12.5$ L, $P_2 = 5.40$ psi, we need to find $P_1$.

Step3: Rearrange formula for $P_1$

$P_1=\frac{P_2V_2}{V_1}$

Step4: Substitute values

$P_1=\frac{5.40\times12.5}{5.00}$
$P_1=\frac{67.5}{5.00}=13.5$ psi

Answer:

13.5 psi