Problem 22 - Chemistry An Atoms First Approach

Question

A bag of potato chips is packed and sealed in Los Angeles, California, and then shipped to Lake Tahoe, Nevada, during ski season. It is noticed that the volume of the bag of potato chips has increased upon its arrival in Lake Tahoe. What external conditions would most likely cause the volume increase?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The most likely external condition causing the volume increase in the bag of potato chips is the difference in altitude and consequent air pressure between Los Angeles and Lake Tahoe. Lower air pressure at higher altitudes, such as in Lake Tahoe, causes the gas inside the sealed container to expand, leading to a noticeable increase in volume.

Step 1: Analyze changes in temperature

Temperature can affect the volume of gases inside a sealed container. Typically, when the temperature of a gas increases, its volume also increases. We should compare the average temperatures in Los Angeles and Lake Tahoe to see if there is a significant difference that could have caused the volume increase.

Step 2: Analyze changes in altitude

Altitude can affect air pressure, which in turn can affect the volume of gases in a sealed container. As we move higher in altitude, the air pressure decreases. Lake Tahoe is at a higher altitude than Los Angeles, so there should be a lower air pressure in Lake Tahoe.

Step 3: Analyze changes in air pressure

Air pressure changes can directly affect the volume of a gas inside a sealed container. When external air pressure decreases, the gas inside the container will expand until it equalizes with the external pressure. We can consider the difference in air pressure between the two locations to determine if it's a likely cause for the volume increase.

Step 4: Identifying the most likely cause

Based on our analysis, it's likely that the difference in altitude and consequent air pressure are the main external factors contributing to the increase in the volume of the bag of potato chips. Lower air pressure at higher altitudes causes the gas inside the sealed container to expand, leading to a noticeable increase in volume.