V

Vaporization

Liquid → Gas; ΔHvap > 0; Clausius-Clapeyron: ln(P₂/P₁) = -ΔHvap/R(1/T₂-1/T₁)
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Quick Reference
Formula / NotationLiquid → Gas; ΔHvap > 0; Clausius-Clapeyron: ln(P₂/P₁) = -ΔHvap/R(1/T₂-1/T₁)
Also Known AsEvaporation, boiling, liquid-to-gas transition, volatilisation

What is Vaporization?

The phase transition from liquid to gas, which can occur by evaporation (at the surface, below boiling point) or boiling (throughout the liquid, at boiling point). Vaporization is endothermic; the enthalpy of vaporization is the heat required to vaporize one mole of liquid.

Formula & Notation

Liquid → Gas; ΔHvap > 0; Clausius-Clapeyron: ln(P₂/P₁) = -ΔHvap/R(1/T₂-1/T₁)

Other Names / Synonyms: Evaporation, boiling, liquid-to-gas transition, volatilisation

Properties & Characteristics

Vaporisation is the phase transition from liquid to gas, occurring either at the surface (evaporation) or throughout the bulk of the liquid (boiling). It is an endothermic process requiring energy equal to the enthalpy of vaporisation. The boiling point is the temperature at which the vapour pressure equals atmospheric pressure. The Clausius-Clapeyron equation describes the temperature dependence of vapour pressure.

Uses & Applications

Vaporisation is the basis of distillation used to separate and purify liquids. Steam generation for power production and heating relies on vaporisation. Industrial drying processes remove water by controlled vaporisation.

Safety Information

Volatile flammable liquids that vaporise readily present fire and explosion risks. Rapid vaporisation of cryogenic liquids can cause asphyxiation by displacing oxygen. Vaporisation of toxic liquids creates inhalation hazards.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Vaporization
Formula Liquid → Gas; ΔHvap > 0; Clausius-Clapeyron: ln(P₂/P₁) = -ΔHvap/R(1/T₂-1/T₁)
Synonyms Evaporation, boiling, liquid-to-gas transition, volatilisation

Frequently Asked Questions

The phase transition from liquid to gas, which can occur by evaporation (at the surface, below boiling point) or boiling (throughout the liquid, at boiling point). Vaporization is endothermic; the enthalpy of vaporization is the heat required to vaporize one mole of liquid.

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Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature, CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA, and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified professionals before handling chemicals.