Boiling is the process where liquid water is converted to water vapor when heat is absorbed, causing the water molecules to overcome intermolecular attractive forces. During boiling, water vapor does negative work on the atmosphere by transferring energy and releasing heat. The boiling point of water depends on air pressure, with lower altitudes having higher air pressure and higher boiling points as the pressure prevents molecules from escaping as easily.

1. The Science of Boiling
Water
Boiling water may seem simple, but the science behind it is complex. Join
me on a journey of discovery to understand the basics of boiling and the
negative work done by water vapor.
by Arjun Sarkar

2. What is Boiling?
1 Molecular Transformation
Boiling is the rapid transformation of liquid water to water vapor.
2 Physical Change
It is a physical change that involves the absorption of heat and
reflects the physical properties of water.

3. The Science Behind Boiling
Molecular Interactions
Boiling is a result of breaking strong
intermolecular bonds that hold water
molecules together.
Impact of Temperature
Increasing temperature can overcome
attractive forces between molecules,
leading to a rise in the boiling point of
water.
Vaporization Process
As heat is absorbed, the molecules gain
energy, transform into a gas, and escape
the surface of the liquid in the form of
water vapor.

4. Negative Work Done by Water Vapor
Energy Transfer
During boiling, water vapor does negative work on the
atmosphere, transferring energy and releasing heat.
Air Pressure's Role
The air pressure has a significant impact on the boiling
point of water since higher altitudes typically experience
lower pressure, which leads to a lower boiling point.

5. Pressure and Boiling Point
1 Lower Air Pressure
At high altitudes, the pressure is lower. This means that the boiling
point is also lower.
2 Higher Air Pressure
At lower altitudes, the pressure is higher, and the boiling point is
elevated as the atmospheric pressure prevents the liquid
molecules from escaping.

6. Water's Physical Properties
Characteristic Value
Density 1 g/cm³
Boiling Point 100°C (at standard pressure)
Heat of Vaporization 40.652 kJ/mol