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GATE 2021 ME (ME1) – Question 56

Thermodynamics · Thermodynamic systems and processes, properties of pure substances · 2 marks · Numerical answer

In the vicinity of the triple point, the equation of liquid-vapour boundary in the $P-T$ phase diagram for ammonia is $\ln P=24.38-3063/T$, where $P$ is pressure (in Pa) and $T$ is temperature (in K). Similarly, the solid-vapour boundary is given by $\ln P=27.92-3754/T$. The temperature at the triple point is _____ K (round off to one decimal place).

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Correct answer: 194.22 to 196.18

Explanation

Both coexistence boundaries share the same pressure at the triple point. Equate them: $24.38-3063/T=27.92-3754/T$.

Thus $691/T=3.54$, giving $T=195.19774$ K. **Answer: 195.2 K**.