What happens if helium is heated?
Helium is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is the second most abundant element in the universe. It is used in many applications, from cooling MRI scanners to providing lift for hot air balloons. But what happens when helium is heated?
Thermal Expansion
Like all gases, helium expands when heated. This means that when the temperature of the gas increases, its volume increases as well. This is due to the kinetic energy of the gas particles increasing, causing them to move faster and take up more space. The amount of expansion is proportional to the temperature increase.
Viscosity
When heated, helium also becomes less viscous. Viscosity is the measure of a fluid’s resistance to flow. As the temperature of the gas increases, the molecules move faster and can more easily slide past each other, reducing the fluid’s resistance to flow. This makes it easier for the gas to move through a pipe or other container.
Pressure
When the temperature of the gas increases, its pressure also increases. This is because the kinetic energy of the particles is increasing, causing them to collide more often and with greater force. This increases the pressure of the gas.
Density
The density of helium decreases when it is heated. This is because the kinetic energy of the particles is increasing, causing them to move farther apart. As the particles move farther apart, the density of the gas decreases.
Compressibility
When heated, helium also becomes more compressible. This means that when pressure is applied to the gas, its volume decreases. This is because the kinetic energy of the particles is increasing, causing them to move closer together and take up less space.
Conductivity
The conductivity of helium increases when it is heated. This is because the kinetic energy of the particles is increasing, causing them to move faster and carry more electrical current. This makes helium a better conductor of electricity than other gases.
Conclusion
When heated, helium undergoes several changes, including an increase in its volume, viscosity, pressure, density, compressibility, and conductivity. These changes make helium a valuable and versatile gas that can be used in a variety of applications.