Basic gas law reference: The molar volume occupied by one gm·mol (one mole) of an ideal gas at standard temperature and pressure (S.T.P.) is approximately equal to which of the following?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 22.4 litres

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The molar volume at S.T.P. is a benchmark figure for gas calculations, quick estimates of moles from volumes, and stoichiometry in reaction engineering. Though different standards exist (e.g., IUPAC’s 0°C, 1 bar), many textbooks still reference 22.414 L/mol at 0°C and 1 atm.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Ideal-gas behaviour assumed.
  • Classical S.T.P. convention: 0°C (273.15 K) and 1 atm.


Concept / Approach:
Using PV = nRT with n = 1 mol, P = 1 atm, T = 273.15 K, and R = 0.082057 L·atm·mol^-1·K^-1 gives V ≈ 22.414 L. This is typically rounded to 22.4 L for quick work.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Step 1: Write PV = nRT.Step 2: Substitute P = 1 atm, n = 1 mol, R = 0.082057 L·atm·mol^-1·K^-1, T = 273.15 K.Step 3: Compute V ≈ 22.414 L.Step 4: Round appropriately to ~22.4 L.


Verification / Alternative check:
If using 1 bar instead of 1 atm, the molar volume is ~22.71 L/mol. The answer here follows the 1 atm convention consistent with many problem sets.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 22400 litres: Off by a factor of 1000 (confuses litres with millilitres).
  • 22.4 c.c.: Off by 1000 (1 L = 1000 c.c.).
  • 359 litres: Approximates 12.7 moles at STP, not one mole.


Common Pitfalls:
Mixing definitions of S.T.P. or mixing units (L, mL, c.c.). Always check the stated standard before using the molar volume constant.


Final Answer:
22.4 litres

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