Rate of evaporation of a spherical drop

In summary, the problem involves deriving the radius of a spherical drop of liquid as a function of time, assuming constant density and given that the rate of evaporation is proportional to its surface area. The surface area of a sphere is A = 4 \pi R(t)^{2} and the volume of a sphere is needed to solve the problem using the chain rule. Additionally, it is important to note that as the drop evaporates, it is the volume that is changing.
  • #1
castusalbuscor
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Homework Statement



The rate of evaporation of a spherical drop of liquid is proportional to its surface area.
Derive R(t) assuming constant density, where R(t) is the radius of the drop as a function of time.

Homework Equations



I know that the surface area of the sphere is [tex]A = 4 \pi R(t)^{2}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



So would I just take the time derivative of the surface area?
Which gives:
[tex]\frac{d A}{dt} = 8 \pi R(t) [/tex]

Some how this seems wrong.
 
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  • #2
For this problem you need the volume of a sphere, and the area of a sphere. Now, what does it mean if the "rate of evaporation is proportional to its surface area". Also, assume that as the drop evaporates, it is the VOLUME that is changing. i.e. dV/dt = ? (look at the statement in quotes). Now do you know what to do? You'll need to use the chain rule too.
 

What factors affect the rate of evaporation of a spherical drop?

The rate of evaporation of a spherical drop is affected by several factors, including the temperature of the surrounding environment, the humidity level, the surface area of the drop, the type of liquid in the drop, and the presence of air currents. Higher temperatures and lower humidity levels tend to increase the rate of evaporation, while larger surface areas, thicker liquids, and still air can decrease the rate.

How does the size of the spherical drop impact the rate of evaporation?

The size of the spherical drop can have a significant impact on the rate of evaporation. Generally, larger drops have a larger surface area and therefore evaporate faster than smaller drops. However, this relationship is not linear, as larger drops also tend to have a thicker layer of liquid on the surface, which can act as a barrier to evaporation. This means that extremely large drops may actually evaporate slower than smaller drops.

Can the rate of evaporation of a spherical drop be accurately predicted?

While there are mathematical models and equations that can estimate the rate of evaporation of a spherical drop, the exact rate can be difficult to predict due to the complex interplay of various factors. In addition, external factors such as wind and temperature fluctuations can also affect the rate of evaporation, making it challenging to make accurate predictions.

How does the type of liquid in the drop affect the rate of evaporation?

The type of liquid in the drop can have a significant impact on the rate of evaporation. Generally, liquids with lower viscosity (thickness) and higher vapor pressure (ability to evaporate) will evaporate faster than thicker liquids with lower vapor pressure. This is why water, with its low viscosity and high vapor pressure, evaporates much faster than honey, which is thicker and has a lower vapor pressure.

Can the rate of evaporation of a spherical drop be manipulated?

Yes, the rate of evaporation of a spherical drop can be manipulated by controlling the environmental factors that affect it. For example, by increasing the temperature and decreasing the humidity, the rate of evaporation can be increased. Similarly, changing the size of the drop or the type of liquid can also affect the rate of evaporation. However, it is important to note that some factors, such as air currents, may be more difficult to control and can have a significant impact on the rate of evaporation.

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