Chapter 20, Problem 30A

From Table 20.1, which filling would be more effective in making a balloon rise—helium or hydrogen? Why?

To determine

To identify: Whether the balloon will rise more effectively by filling it with helium or hydrogen.

Answer to Problem 30A

The balloon will rise more effectively by filling it with hydrogen because it is less dense than Helium and the surrounding air.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Any object rises when the pressure inside the object is lesser than the outward pressure.

The density of Helium is heavier as compared to the density of Hydrogen. Thus, when a Hydrogen filled balloon is left alone in the air then due to lesser dense, it rises more quickly as compared to a balloon filled with Helium. However, Hydrogen is inflammable that is why Helium is preferred in the balloon such as hot air balloons.

Conclusion:

The balloon will rise more effectively by filling it with hydrogen because it is less dense than Helium and the surrounding air.