8.2. Gauge Pressure and Vacuum Pressure

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define gauge pressure in your own words.

   Hint

   Think about pressures above the normal atmospheric level.

2. 2.

   What is vacuum pressure?

   Hint

   Consider how pressures are reduced from normal levels.

3. 3.

   What is gauge pressure?

   • Pressure below atmospheric pressure
   • Pressure above atmospheric pressure
   • Total pressure including atmospheric pressure

   Hint

   Think about whether it is above or below the standard atmospheric level.

4. 4.

   True or False: Vacuum pressure is always a positive value.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the definition of vacuum in relation to atmospheric pressure.

5. 5.

   A cylinder contains a gas at a gauge pressure of 300 kPa. If the atmospheric pressure is 100 kPa, calculate the absolute pressure.

   Hint

   Use the absolute pressure formula.

6. 6.

   A vacuum chamber shows a gauge pressure of -50 kPa. What is the absolute pressure if atmospheric pressure is 101.3 kPa?

   Hint

   Apply the correct formula keeping signs in mind.