PROBLEM 78P
The oxygen gas emitted from an aquatic plant during photosynthesis is collected over water at 25 °C and a total pressure of 753 torr. What is the partial pressure of the oxygen gas?
Solution 78P
Given:
Total partial pressure = 746 torr
Temperature = 25oC
Solution:
Since the oxygen is being collected over water, P(total) = P(O2) + P(H2O).
To find P(H2O), look up the vapor pressure of water at the given temperature (25 oC).
Vapor pressure of water at 25 degrees Celsius- 23.8 mm Hg.
P(total) = P(O2) + P(H2O)
746 = P(O2) + 23.8
P(O2) = 722.2
The partial pressure of oxygen is therefore 722.2 torr