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Ch.11 - Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Chapter 11, Problem 96

Consider a planet where the atmospheric pressure at sea level is 2500 mmHg. Does water behave in a way that can sustain life on the planet?

Verified step by step guidance
1
<Understand the problem: We need to determine if water can exist in a liquid state under the given atmospheric pressure of 2500 mmHg, which is crucial for sustaining life.>
<Recall the concept of boiling point: The boiling point of a liquid is the temperature at which its vapor pressure equals the external pressure.>
<Use the known data: On Earth, water boils at 100°C under 760 mmHg. We need to find the boiling point of water under 2500 mmHg.>
<Apply the Clausius-Clapeyron equation: This equation relates the change in vapor pressure with temperature, which can help estimate the boiling point under different pressures.>
<Consider the implications: If the boiling point is too low or too high, it might affect the ability of water to sustain life as we know it.>