Both a compressed gas cylinder and its regulator are at room temperature with all valves in the off position. After the cylinder is opened and gas begins flowing, you note that the regulator is extremely cold to touch. Which of the following principles best explains this observation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Joule-Thompson effect is the cooling or heating that occurs as a result of gas expansion or compression. When gas flows through the regulator, it experiences a pressure drop, which causes it to expand and cool. This results in the regulator becoming extremely cold to touch.

Both a Compressed Gas Cylinder and Its Regulator Are at Room