Understanding Phase Diagrams: Boiling, Melting & Critical Points

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding phase diagrams, specifically focusing on boiling, melting, and critical points as presented in a homework problem. Participants are attempting to interpret the diagrams and clarify the concepts associated with them.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant identifies the triple point as where the three states of matter exist in equilibrium and the critical point as where the distinction between liquid and gas ends.
  • Another participant expresses uncertainty about the accuracy of the textbook or exam paper, suggesting that there may be errors in the figures or labeling.
  • Concerns are raised about the labeling of points in the diagrams, with one participant noting a discrepancy between lower-case and upper-case labels.
  • Participants discuss the potential need to seek clarification from the professor regarding the confusing aspects of the homework problem and the diagrams.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that there is confusion regarding the diagrams and the questions posed, but there is no consensus on the correct interpretation or resolution of the issues raised.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential issues with the textbook or exam paper, including jumbled figures and unclear labeling, which may contribute to the confusion experienced while attempting to solve the homework problem.

Qube
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Homework Statement



https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/v/1012733_10201076259690370_236735593_n.jpg?oh=4896ca67a34d3b223b764aba8ed308ab&oe=528A1B57

Homework Equations



http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/34/Phase-diag2.svg

The Attempt at a Solution



Not sure entirely what's going on here.

A) Triple point. Where the three states of matter exist in equilibrium.
B) Critical point. Where the distinction between liquid and gas ends. No more condensation or evaporation past this point. A supercritical fluid exists beyond this point.
C) Looks like a point within the solid region of the phase diagram.

These don't correspond with any answers. Boiling and melting points lie ON the 760 torr/1 atm dotted line, right? So it looks like there is no correct answer?!

ETA:

This seems to be a common "problem." Consider this follow up problem - er - what is this e to f line? Is there some convention I am missing - that there is always an implied e to f line?

https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/v/576634_10201076272730696_868146875_n.jpg?oh=623c0ebd9b4868a62578d975129c85d3&oe=528A98A4

Also please consider this other problem in which there appear to be invisible points: https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/v/941858_10201076233729721_1666715440_n.jpg?oh=8f6cf59215279e3607fd06eb999ebedf&oe=528A8A74
 
Last edited:
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Looks like there is something wrong with the book.
 
Right. I thought something was going over my head. Guess I'll take it up with the prof.
 
Is this taken from a textbook or a past exam paper? If a book, maybe the editors got the figures jumbled up?

I'm uneasy where the question asks about lower-case points a, b and c but the nearest diagram is labelled in upper-case.
 
NascentOxygen said:
Is this taken from a textbook or a past exam paper? If a book, maybe the editors got the figures jumbled up?

I'm uneasy where the question asks about lower-case points a, b and c but the nearest diagram is labelled in upper-case.

These are actual past exam papers written by my professor and sold in a book. The problematic questions are also from separate years. I have no clue what is going on.

I might have to ask my prof for both clarification and refund on the price of purchasing his book.
 

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