Problem 2.4: Why does raising pressure increase the
From Chapter 2 Problem Set. Level 1: Conceptual Mastery.
Question
Why does raising pressure increase the temperature at which water boils? How does lowering pressure affect the boiling point?
Answer
Show answer
Water boils when its vapor pressure equals the pressure surrounding it. At higher pressure, water must reach a higher temperature before vapor bubbles can form and survive. Lowering the surrounding pressure allows boiling to occur at a lower temperature.