Molecules of a liquid can pass into the vapor phase only...

Molecules of a liquid can pass into the vapor phase only under which of the following conditions? a. Atmospheric pressure is less than 640 mm Hg . b. The vapor pressure of the liquid is greater than the atmos pheric pressure. c. The temperature of the liquid exceeds the liquid's normal boiling point. d. The molecules have sufficient kinetic energy to overcome the intermolecular forces in the liquid.

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Key Concepts

Boiling Point

The boiling point is the temperature at which a liquid’s vapor pressure equals the external pressure. At and above this temperature, bubbles can form within the liquid and rapid vaporization occurs. This concept highlights the relationship between temperature, vapor pressure, and phase transition.

Kinetic Energy

This concept refers to the energy that molecules possess due to their motion. In the context of phase transitions, a liquid molecule must have enough kinetic energy to overcome the attractive intermolecular forces holding it in the liquid state. Only when a molecule has sufficiently high energy can it escape into the vapor phase.

Intermolecular Forces

These are the forces of attraction between molecules in a liquid. They determine how strongly the molecules are held together, and the ease with which molecules can leave the liquid phase. Overcoming these forces is essential for a molecule to evaporate into the vapor phase.

Vapor Pressure

This is the pressure exerted by the vapor molecules above a liquid in equilibrium with its liquid phase. It indicates the tendency of the liquid molecules to escape into the gas phase and is closely related to the temperature of the liquid. When vapor pressure is high, more molecules have enough energy to overcome intermolecular forces.

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