Gases- Collapsing a 55-Gallon Drum

Collapsing a 55-Gallon Drum

Description: Two liters of water are poured into a 55-gallon drum, and the drum is heated for approximately 30 minutes. The drum is sealed, and it collapses within 5 minutes.

Source: Lee Marek, personal communication

Year:  1990  Vol: N/A   Page: N/A

Keywords: 55-Gallon Drum, Water, Air pressure, Intermolecular  Forces

Rating:

Hazard: Some

  • Flammability hazard
  • Scalding hazard
  • Burn hazard
  • Slip hazard

Effectiveness: Good

  • Clearly observable without guidance
  • Good connection to course material
  • Moderate to high failure rate
  • Time to results is high

Difficulty: High

  • Difficult manipulations for most to perform
  • High temperature object in use
  • Some intermediate steps to results
  • Procedure involve difficulty
  • Sequential manipulations
  • Demos at non-standard conditions
  • Prior training or practice is required

Safety Precautions:

  • Eye protection required
  • High temperature gloves required
  • Heat resistant surface required
  • Absorbent material on hand
  • Lab coat or long sleeves required

Class: Gas Laws, Physical Chemistry

Division: General