Question

The density of solid argon is 1.65 g per cc at 233°C. If the argon atom is assumed to be a sphere of radius \( 1.54 \times 10^{-8} \) cm, what percent of solid argon is apparently empty space? \( A_r = 40 \)

• A. 16.5%
• B. 38%
• C. 50%
• D. 62%

Hint:

To calculate the empty space in a solid, compare the total volume of atoms to the volume occupied by the atoms themselves.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Volume and density relationship.
The volume occupied by argon can be calculated from the density, and the volume of a single argon atom can be calculated assuming it is a sphere. By comparing these volumes, we find that 38% of the solid argon is empty space.

Step 2: Conclusion.
The percentage of empty space in solid argon is 38%, which corresponds to option (2).