Question

How would the use of a volatile liquid affect the measurement of a gas using open-ended manometers vs. closed-end manometers?

a) Volatile liquid in open-ended manometer increases accuracy.
b) Volatile liquid in closed-end manometer decreases accuracy.
c) Volatile liquid in open-ended manometer interferes with readings.
d) Volatile liquid in closed-end manometer improves precision.

Answer 1

Using a volatile liquid in manometers can negatively affect pressure measurements, as it introduces additional vapor pressure that interferes with readings in both open-ended and closed-end manometers. This scenario corresponds to option (c): Volatile liquid in open-ended manometer interferes with readings.

Step-by-step explanation:

The use of a volatile liquid in a manometer has implications for the accuracy and precision of pressure measurements. An open-ended manometer is exposed to the atmosphere, so if a volatile liquid is used, it will tend to evaporate into the air, which interferes with the measurement by introducing additional pressure from the vapor. This scenario corresponds to option (c): Volatile liquid in open-ended manometer interferes with readings. On the other hand, a closed-end manometer has one end sealed, creating a vacuum above the liquid. Here, if a volatile liquid is used, the evaporating liquid creates a vapor pressure in the closed arm, which affects the accuracy of the pressure measurement of the gas, aligning with option (b): Volatile liquid in closed-end manometer decreases accuracy. Therefore, for both types of manometers, the presence of a volatile liquid would negatively affect the measurement outcomes.