The percentage O2 by weight and by volume in atmospheric air isa)21% a...
Percentage of O2 in atmospheric air
The percentage of oxygen (O2) in atmospheric air is commonly measured by weight and volume.
- By weight: This refers to the amount of oxygen present in the air compared to the total weight of the air sample.
- By volume: This refers to the amount of oxygen present in the air compared to the total volume of the air sample.
Determining the percentage of O2 by weight
To calculate the percentage of oxygen in atmospheric air by weight, we need to know the molecular weight of oxygen and the molecular weight of air.
The molecular weight of oxygen (O2) is 32 g/mol, as each oxygen molecule has an atomic weight of 16 g/mol.
The molecular weight of air is a mixture of various gases, including nitrogen (N2), oxygen (O2), carbon dioxide (CO2), and trace amounts of other gases. The average molecular weight of air is approximately 28.97 g/mol.
To determine the percentage of O2 by weight, we can use the following formula:
Percentage of O2 by weight = (Molecular weight of O2 / Molecular weight of air) * 100
Percentage of O2 by weight = (32 g/mol / 28.97 g/mol) * 100 ≈ 110.57%
Therefore, the percentage of O2 in atmospheric air by weight is approximately 110.57%.
Determining the percentage of O2 by volume
To calculate the percentage of oxygen in atmospheric air by volume, we need to know the volume fraction of oxygen in air.
The volume fraction of oxygen in air is approximately 20.95%, which can be rounded to 21%.
Therefore, the percentage of O2 in atmospheric air by volume is approximately 21%.
Conclusion
Based on the calculations, the correct option is B) 23% and 21% respectively. The percentage of O2 in atmospheric air is approximately 23% by weight and 21% by volume.
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