College Physics III – Thermodynamics, Electricity, and Magnetism

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Vapor pressure

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College Physics III – Thermodynamics, Electricity, and Magnetism

Definition

Vapor pressure is the pressure exerted by a vapor in thermodynamic equilibrium with its condensed phases at a given temperature. It indicates the tendency of a substance to evaporate.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Vapor pressure increases with temperature due to higher kinetic energy of molecules.
  2. A liquid boils when its vapor pressure equals the external atmospheric pressure.
  3. Substances with high vapor pressures at room temperature are considered volatile.
  4. The Clausius-Clapeyron equation relates vapor pressure and temperature for phase changes.
  5. In a closed system, dynamic equilibrium is achieved when the rate of evaporation equals the rate of condensation.

Review Questions

  • What happens to the vapor pressure of a liquid as its temperature increases?
  • How does atmospheric pressure affect the boiling point of a liquid?
  • What is meant by dynamic equilibrium in the context of vapor pressure?
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