You are given a cylinder of an unknown, non-radioactive,

Chapter , Problem 1DE

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Problem 1DE

You are given a cylinder of an unknown, non-radioactive, noble gas and tasked to determine its molar mass and use that value to identify the gas. The tools available to you are several empty mylar balloons that are about the size of a grapefruit when inflated (gases diffuse through mylar much more slowly than conventional latex balloons), an analytical balance, and three graduated glass beakers of different sizes (100 mL, 500 mL, and 2 L). (a) To how many significant figures would you need to determine the molar mass to identify the gas? (b) Propose an experiment or series of experiments that would allow you to determine the molar mass of the unknown gas. Describe the tools, calculations, and assumptions you would need to use. (c) If you had access to a broader range of analytical instruments, describe an alternative way you could identify the gas using any experimental methods that you have learned about in the earlier chapters.