Vapour Pressure: Pressure Exerted on Liquid & Container

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SUMMARY

Vapour pressure is defined as the pressure exerted by a vapor in thermodynamic equilibrium with its condensed phases within a closed system. This pressure applies equally to both the container and the liquid surface, as established by Pascal's law, which states that static pressure in fluids is uniform in all directions. The pressure of saturated vapor, which varies with temperature and the curvature of the liquid surface, is a critical value found in thermodynamic tables. Additionally, atmospheric pressure variations, such as those experienced at higher altitudes, affect the overall pressure exerted on the container, as described by the barometric formula.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamic equilibrium
  • Familiarity with Pascal's law in fluid mechanics
  • Knowledge of saturated vapor pressure and its dependence on temperature
  • Basic comprehension of the barometric formula and atmospheric pressure effects
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between temperature and saturated vapor pressure
  • Study Pascal's law and its applications in fluid dynamics
  • Explore the barometric formula and its implications for pressure at different altitudes
  • Investigate thermodynamic tables for various substances and their vapor pressures
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, chemistry, and engineering fields, particularly those focusing on thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and atmospheric science.

johnathon
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According to Wikipedia, vapour pressure is the pressure of a vapor in thermodynamic equilibrium with its condensed phases in a closed system.
Does that mean the pressure the vapour exerts on the container or the pressure the vapour exerts on the liquid?
 
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Jonathon,
if we compare the pressure of saturated vapor on the container at the level of the liquid and the pressure on the liquid, these are the same, by Pascal's law - in fluids, static pressure is the same in all directions. This is the pressure given as "pressure of saturated vapor" in tables (depends on the temperature and the curvature of liquid surface).

If the pressure on the container was considered at higher altitude, this would be lower due to gravity (look for barometric formula).

Jano
 

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