How many phase rule variables must be specified to fix the thermodynamic state of each of the following systems? show how you determine these.

(i) a sealed flask containing a liquid ethanol-water mixture in equilibrium with its vapor.

(ii) a sealed flask containing a liquid ethanol-water mixture in equilibrium with its vapor and nitrogen.

(iii) a sealed flask containing ethanol, toluene, and water as two liquid phases plus vapor.

(i) F = 2

(ii) F = 3

(iii) F = 2

Explanation:

We would be applying the famous Gibbs Phase Rule to explaining this problem;

By applying the formula;

F+P = C +2

Where P = this represent the phase

F = this is called the degree of freedom

C = this represent the component in the system

Ok let us begin;

(i). from this we can see that there are 2 components i.e. (water + ethanol) and the phase in question is a vapor phase + liquid phase.

So from the formula;

F = C-P+2

F = 2 – 2 + 2 = 2

Therefore, F = 2.

(ii). Also, from the statement, we can figure there are 3 components, while the phases are two like the previous one above, i.e. liquid + vapor

F = 3 – 2 + 2 = 5 – 2 = 3

F = 3

(iii). From this statement, we can figure there are 3 components, and the phases are 3 i.e. (2 liquid phases + 1 vapor phase)

From the formula;

F = 3 – 3 + 2 = 0 + 2

F = 2

- decrease the number of plants and animals living in the water.

explanation: it gains negative electrons, therefore becoming negatively charged. as charge cannot be created, nor destroyed, only transferred, this leaves the wool positive. now that they have opposite charges, the two items attract.