The latent heat of water evaporation at 20 degrees Celsius is not a fixed value and can be determined using Hess's Law. The discussion emphasizes the importance of consulting a saturated steam table for accurate values. While the latent heat at the boiling point is well-documented, the value at lower temperatures requires specific calculations based on thermodynamic principles. Understanding these concepts is crucial for accurate thermal energy assessments in various applications.
PREREQUISITESStudents and professionals in thermodynamics, engineers working with heat transfer, and anyone involved in the study of phase changes in water and steam applications.