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An experiment was set up to verify Boyle's law - Leaving Cert Physics - Question 1 - 2018
Question 1
An experiment was set up to verify Boyle's law. (i) Draw a labelled diagram of the apparatus used in this experiment. (12) The table shows the measurements obtaine... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:An experiment was set up to verify Boyle's law - Leaving Cert Physics - Question 1 - 2018
Step 1
Draw a labelled diagram of the apparatus used in this experiment.
Answer
To answer this part, one should create a diagram illustrating the apparatus typically used in experiments to verify Boyle's Law. The diagram should include:
- Enclosed Volume of Gas: This could represent a syringe or a gas jar.
- Pressure Measurement Device: Indicate a pressure gauge or manometer connected to the gas.
- Volume Measurement Tool: A scale or graduated cylinder for volume measurement.
- Method for Varying Volume: This could be illustrated by showing how to manipulate the plunger in a syringe or adjusting the gas jar.
Be sure to label each component clearly.
Step 2
How were the pressure and volume measured?
Answer
The pressure was measured using a pressure gauge connected to the gas, which provides readings in kilopascals (kPa). The volume was measured using a graduated cylinder or syringe, where the displaced volume of gas can be read directly from the scale marked on the apparatus. The volume of trapped air can be monitored by observing the level of liquid in the graduated scale.
Step 3
Step 4
Explain how the data can be used to verify Boyle's law.
Answer
The data can be used to verify Boyle's Law, which states that pressure (P) is inversely proportional to volume (V) when temperature remains constant. To illustrate this, we can plot pressure (P) against volume (V). According to Boyle's Law, as the volume decreases, the pressure should increase and vice versa. A graph showing this relationship should yield a hyperbolic curve, confirming the inverse relationship. The equation representing this relationship could be presented as:
Step 5
State two precautions which the student might have taken to improve the accuracy of this experiment.
Answer
- Ensure that the apparatus is airtight to prevent any gas leakage, which would alter the pressure readings.
- Measure the volume of gas at eye level to avoid parallax error, ensuring accurate readings of the liquid level or gas volume.