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Vapour density is the density of a vapour in relation to that of hydrogen. May be defined as mass of a certain volume of a substance divided by mass of same volume of hydrogen.
vapour density = mass of n molecules of gas / mass of n molecules of hydrogen
by definition molar mass of a gas is the ratio of the mass of one molecule of gas to that of an hydrogen atom under similar conditions
so, vapour density = 1/2 molar mass
See also
- relative density (also known as specific gravity)
In many web sources, the vapour density is defined with respect to air, not hydrogen. With this definition, the vapour density would indicate whether a gas is denser (greater than one) or less dense (less than one) than air. The density has implications for container storage and personnel safety--if a container can release a dense gas, its vapour could sink and, if flammable, collect until it is at a concentration sufficient for ignition. Even if not flammable, it could collect in the lower floor or level of a confined space and displace air, to present a smothering hazard to individuals entering the lower part of that space.
It is recommended that individuals confirm the definition of vapour density being used in their specific context.
Wikipedia content modification information:
- This page was last modified on 3 September 2008, at 22:00.
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