boiling pointThe temperature at which the liquid and gas phases of a substance are in equilibrium at a specified pressure; the temperature at which the vapor pressure of a liquid becomes equal to the external pressure. The boiling point increases as the external pressure increases and falls as it decreases. It is usually measured at a standard pressure of one atmosphere (760mm of mercury, 101.325 kPa). The boiling point of pure water at standard pressure is 100°C (212°F). Measurement of boiling point is important in chemical analysis and the determination of relative molecular masses. Compare with melting point. Related categories• HEAT AND THERMODYNAMICS PROPERTIES OF MATTER Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History |