CHEM 154

PS 1 : Real gases and solutions

Lecturer: Dr. Martinez

1. Deduce the relation between the pressure and mass density (ρ) of a perfect gas of
molar mass M. Confirm graphically, using the following data on dimethyl ether at 25°C,
that perfect behavior is reached at low pressures and find the molar mass of the gas. (5
pts)

2. Derive the expression for chemical potential (μB) to describe solute activity, and
explain the following:
(1) How does μB differs from μA, which is used to describe the activity of a pure
component?
(2) Why is μB * unrealizable at the infinitely dilute state?
(15 points)

Vm a
3. For a van der Waals gas, z= − . Expand the first term of this
( V m−b ) RT V m

expression in a Taylor series in the limit V m ≫ b to obtain z ≈ 1+ ( b−a ) 1

RT ( V )
m
.
(10 points)

4. Suggest the pressure and temperature at which 1.0 mol of (a) H 2S, (b) CO2 (c) Ar will
be in states that correspond to 1.0 mol N2 at 1.0 atm and 25°C.
(Principle of Corresponding States) (5 pts)

5. A certain gas obeys the van der Waals equation with a = 0.76 m 6 Pa mol-1. Its volume
is found to be 4.00 * 10-4 m3 mol-1 at 288 K and 4.0 MPa. From this information calculate
the van der Waals constant b. What is the compression factor for this gas at the prevailing
temperature and pressure? (5 pts)

TOTAL: 40 pts

ENJOY! 