Chapter 2. Basic Principles and Calculations

Molar Volume and Compressibility Factor from Van Der Waals Equation

Concepts Demonstrated

Use of the van der Waals equation of state to calculate molar volume and compressibility factor for a gas.

Numerical Methods Utilized

Solution of a single nonlinear algebraic equation.

Problem Statement

The ideal gas law can represent the pressure-volume-temperature (PVT) relationship of gases only at low (near atmospheric) pressures. For higher pressures, more complex equations of state should be used. The calculation of the molar volume and the compressibility factor using complex equations of state typically requires a numerical solution when the pressure and temperature are specified.

The van der Waals equation of ...

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