Latent Heat of Phase Transition: Origin & Explanation

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of latent heat in the context of liquid and solid-solid polymorphic phase transitions. The explanation for latent heat in a liquid is breaking of inter-molecular bonds, while in a solid-solid phase transition, it includes the difference in energy of the bonds between the two solid phases and a contribution from phonons, which can be estimated using the Debye model.
  • #1
g_mogni
48
0
Hello,

We often hear about latent heat of vaporisation for a liquid, which basically corresponds to the energy required to break the hydrogen inter-molecular bonds in the liquid phase to form the gas. I was wondering, what is the equivalent physical explanation for the latent heat of a first-order solid-solid polymorphic pressure-induced phase transition between two solid phases (allotropes) of a crystal? Does it correspond to the difference in energy of the bonds in the two solid phases involved in the phase transition?

Many thanks,Gabriele
 
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  • #2
Yes. Beside this I would expect a contribution from the phonons. This may be estimated using the Debye model. It will reflect the change in stiffness of the material
 

1. What is the latent heat of phase transition?

The latent heat of phase transition is the amount of energy required to cause a substance to change phase, such as from a solid to a liquid or from a liquid to a gas. It is also known as the heat of transformation.

2. What is the origin of latent heat of phase transition?

The origin of latent heat of phase transition can be explained by the principles of thermodynamics. As a substance undergoes a phase change, the energy is either absorbed or released due to the breaking or forming of intermolecular bonds. This energy is known as latent heat.

3. How is latent heat of phase transition measured?

The latent heat of phase transition is typically measured in units of joules per kilogram (J/kg) or calories per gram (cal/g). It can be measured experimentally by observing the changes in temperature and mass of a substance during a phase change process.

4. How does latent heat of phase transition affect the environment?

The latent heat of phase transition plays a crucial role in maintaining the Earth's climate. As water evaporates from the surface of the ocean, it absorbs latent heat from the surrounding air. This helps regulate the temperature and humidity of the atmosphere.

5. Can latent heat of phase transition be harnessed for practical applications?

Yes, latent heat of phase transition has many practical applications. One example is in the production of ice cream, where the energy absorbed during the phase change from liquid to solid helps create a creamy texture. It is also used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems, where the heat absorbed during evaporation is transferred to cool a space.

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