0
$\begingroup$

From my understanding, the compressibility factor is defined by

$$Z=\frac{pv}{RT}=\frac{p\bar{v}}{\bar{R}T}$$

It can also be defined by the ratio of the real molar volume of a gas to the ideal molar volume of a gas at the same temperature and pressure. Essentially it corrects for the deviation of a real gas from an ideal gas.

On a generalized compressibility chart, the compressibility $Z$ is plotted as a function $f=f(p_R,T_R)$ of the reduced pressure and temperature. I don't understand why exactly; it would be nice if someone could explain that a little more.

Another thing I'm confused about is the psuedoreduced specific volume, given by

$$v'_{R}=\frac{\bar{v}}{\bar{R}T_c/p_c}$$

Why don't we use the reduced specific volume as opposed to the psuedoreduced specific volume?

In my thermodynamics class, I was presented with the following question:

Determine the temperature, in °C, of air at 30 bar and a specific volume of 0.013 $m^3/kg$. Use compressibility chart.

I was confused about how to figure out this problem since I can't find the reduced temperature without the actual temperature of the air.

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
4
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ This is a trial and error calculation. $\endgroup$
    – Chet Miller
    Commented Mar 1, 2021 at 22:08
  • $\begingroup$ @ChetMiller How so? Is there not one answer? $\endgroup$
    – Caleb Williams
    Commented Mar 1, 2021 at 22:30
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ There is one answer. Do you know what a trial and error calculation is? $\endgroup$
    – Chet Miller
    Commented Mar 1, 2021 at 22:31
  • $\begingroup$ @ChetMiller No, I'm not sure how to go about this. $\endgroup$
    – Caleb Williams
    Commented Mar 1, 2021 at 22:35

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
1
$\begingroup$

You start out with an initial guess for the temperature. I suggest starting out using the value that you would calculate using the ideal gas law. You then,

  1. Calculate the reduced temperature and pressure
  2. Get z at this reduced temperature and pressure
  3. Use these to calculate a value for the specific volume.
  4. If the value for the calculated specific volume does not match 0.013, adjust your guess for the temperature and go back to step 1.

Continue doing this until the calculated specific volume matches the prescribed value of 0.013

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$
0

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.