Final answer:
To find the original pressure, we can use Boyle's Law, which states that the pressure and volume of a gas are inversely proportional at constant temperature. By plugging in the given values into Boyle's Law equation, we can solve for the original pressure.
Step-by-step explanation:
In this question, we are given the initial volume of methane gas, 20.0 L, and the final volume, 2.50 L, at a constant temperature. We are also given the final pressure, 12.2 atm. To find the original pressure, we can use Boyle's Law, which states that the pressure and volume of a gas are inversely proportional at constant temperature.
Boyle's Law can be expressed as P1V1 = P2V2, where P1 and V1 are the initial pressure and volume, and P2 and V2 are the final pressure and volume.
Plugging in the given values, we have:
P1(20.0 L) = (12.2 atm)(2.50 L)
Solving for P1, we find that the original pressure was 49.0 atm.