The pressure in a chlorine cylinder depends on what factor?

• A. Volume of chlorine gas
• B. Temperature of the chlorine liquid
• C. Ambient air pressure
• D. Chlorine impurities

Answer: (B)

The pressure in a chlorine cylinder is primarily influenced by the temperature of the chlorine liquid. This relationship is explained by gas laws, particularly Gay-Lussac's Law, which states that the pressure of a gas is directly proportional to its absolute temperature when the volume is held constant. In the case of a chlorine cylinder, as the temperature of the chlorine liquid increases, the kinetic energy of the molecules also increases, leading to higher pressure within the cylinder. Conversely, if the temperature decreases, the pressure will also drop.

While factors like the volume of gas and ambient air pressure can play roles in pressure measurements, they do not directly determine the pressure within a sealed cylinder of liquid chlorine as temperature does. Impurities can affect the quality of chlorine but do not significantly change the pressure dynamics based on the principles of gas behavior under varying temperatures. Understanding this principle is critical for safe handling and proper use of chlorine as a treatment chemical.