Question

A rotameter calibration curve (flow rate versus float position) obtained using a liquid is mistakenly used to measure a gas flow rate. Would you expect the gas rate determined in this manner to be too high or too low?

Answer 1

Answer:

I would expect the gas rate determined in this manner to be too low

Explanation:

A Rotameter can be designed to respond to the sensitivity of density, velocity, to measure the flow rate of liquid or gas enclosed in a tube. Liquids are denser than gas, and since the gas rate to be determined needed to respond to the velocity head alone of the rotameter so as to bring the forces in the tube equilibrium. Knowing if there is no flow, then the float would remain at the bottom, so gas has to flow at a higher rate compared to the liquid so the float would be in a similar position making it easier to measure the flowrate. This leaves the gas rate to be determined too low.