Vapour pressure is the pressure exerted by the gaseous form of a liquid when the two are in equilibrium. It is a measure of the tendency of a liquid to evaporate into its gas phase.
Vapour pressure is determined by factors such as temperature, intermolecular forces, and the properties of the liquid and its container. It can be calculated using various equations, such as the Clausius-Clapeyron equation.
Vapour pressure is important in many scientific and industrial processes. It is used to predict and control the evaporation rate of liquids, and is also a crucial factor in determining the boiling point of a substance.
Vapour pressure is directly related to the volatility, or tendency to evaporate, of a liquid. A higher vapour pressure means a more volatile liquid, while a lower vapour pressure means a less volatile liquid. Vapour pressure also affects the boiling point, surface tension, and other properties of a liquid.
Yes, vapour pressure can be changed by altering the temperature, pressure, or composition of the system. For example, increasing the temperature will increase the vapour pressure, while adding a non-volatile solute will lower the vapour pressure of a liquid.