Compressibility Factor Formula:
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Definition: The compressibility factor (Z) is a correction factor that describes the deviation of a real gas from ideal gas behavior.
Purpose: It helps engineers and scientists account for non-ideal behavior in gas calculations, especially at high pressures or low temperatures.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The ratio of actual molar volume to ideal molar volume gives the compressibility factor.
Details: Z values help in accurate gas calculations for industrial processes, chemical engineering, and thermodynamic studies.
Tips: Enter the molar volume of real gas and molar volume of ideal gas in cubic meters. Both values must be > 0.
Q1: What does Z = 1 mean?
A: When Z = 1, the gas behaves ideally (real molar volume equals ideal molar volume).
Q2: What are typical Z values?
A: Z can be less than 1 (attractive forces dominate) or greater than 1 (repulsive forces dominate).
Q3: How do I find molar volumes?
A: Molar volume can be calculated from PV=nRT for ideal gases or measured experimentally for real gases.
Q4: When is this calculation most important?
A: For high-pressure systems or when working with gases near their critical points.
Q5: What units should I use?
A: Use consistent units (m³ in this calculator) for both volume measurements.