What is maximum vapor pressure? Maximum steam pressure.

In the study of Thermodynamics, it is learned that evaporation is a physical phenomenon that occurs at any temperature, as the surface is exposed to the environment. It is correct then to say that without providing heat to the water it will evaporate. Evaporation occurs because molecules with greater speed are able to escape through the free surface of the liquid. Thus, in evaporation the temperature of the liquid decreases, because when molecules with greater speed escape, the kinetic energy decreases.

When a certain amount of water is placed in a closed container, at a certain temperature, the process of evaporating the water contained in the container soon begins. After a while, evaporation inside the insulated container will stop. When evaporation stops inside the insulated container, it will be saturated with steam, that is, it will be full of water vapor.

The internal pressure in the container is exerted by the water vapor itself, so the internal pressure of maximum steam pressure

and the steam contained in the container is called saturating steam. If the temperature of the liquid rises, it will begin to evaporate again; as a result, the internal pressure will also increase.

With this, it is concluded that:

increasing the temperature

the kinetic energy of molecules is increased

more molecules escape from the surface of the liquid

more steam

the pressure increases


By Domitiano Marques
Graduated in Physics

Source: Brazil School - https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/fisica/o-que-pressao-maxima-vapor.htm

First additional payment of BRL 150 from Bolsa Família

Last Monday, the 20th, Caixa Econômica Federal, responsible for transferring Bolsa Família, relea...

read more

Balanced diet can help control anxiety

The busy daily routine and the countless commitments that exist in our lives can greatly harm the...

read more

Study shows that a lack of B12 can lead to urinary incontinence

Vitamin B12 is essential for the healthy functioning of the body. Its deficiency can lead to a nu...

read more