Butane is a fuel. Its melting point is – 140 °C and its boiling point is -1 °C.
Predict the state of butane at -150 °C and at 25°C
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To predict the state of butane at -150 °C and 25 °C, we can refer to its melting point of -140 °C and its boiling point of -1 °C.
State of Butane at -150 °C
At -150 °C, butane is below its melting point of -140 °C. According to the phase diagram of butane, below the melting point, the substance is in a solid state. Therefore, at -150 °C, butane will be a solid. In this state, the molecules of butane are closely packed in a structured arrangement, exhibiting limited mobility and a fixed shape. This solid state is characterized by strong intermolecular forces that hold the molecules in place, leading to solidification.
State of Butane at 25 °C
At 25 °C, which is above the boiling point of butane (-1 °C), butane exists in a gaseous state. The boiling point marks the temperature at which the vapor pressure of the liquid equals the atmospheric pressure, allowing the liquid to transition into vapor. Thus, at 25 °C, butane will be completely vaporized, and the molecules will be far apart and moving freely. In the gaseous state, the intermolecular forces are weak, allowing the butane molecules to spread out and fill the container they occupy.
Summary
To summarize, butane is in a solid state at -150 °C due to its temperature being significantly below its melting point. Conversely, at 25 °C, butane is a gas, as this temperature is well above its boiling point. Understanding these states is crucial in various applications, particularly in the fuel industry, where butane is commonly utilized in lighters, portable stoves, and heating applications. Knowing the physical state of butane at different temperatures helps in handling, storage, and utilization of this fuel efficiently.