If a liquid has high vapour pressure, how will its boiling point generally be?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Lower
A liquid boils when its vapour pressure becomes equal to the external pressure. At the same temperature, a liquid with higher vapour pressure is closer to this condition, so it reaches boiling at a lower temperature. Thus high vapour pressure generally indicates a lower boiling point, as in a more volatile liquid. It is not unrelated to boiling point, and the boiling point is not necessarily zero.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Lower
Why is this the correct answer?
A liquid boils when its vapour pressure becomes equal to the external pressure. At the same temperature, a liquid with higher vapour pressure is closer to this condition, so it reaches boiling at a lower temperature. Thus high vapour pressure generally indicates a lower boiling point, as in a more volatile liquid. It is not unrelated to boiling point, and the boiling point is not necessarily zero.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 11 Chemistry question. Chapter: Equilibrium. Topic: Equilibrium in physical and chemical processes.