Question

How does each of the following affect the rate of evaporation of a liquid in an open dish? a. intermolecular forces b. temperature c. surface area

Short answer

In summary, the rate of evaporation in an open dish is affected by the following factors: a. Intermolecular forces: Stronger forces decrease the rate of evaporation, while weaker forces increase it. b. Temperature: Higher temperature increases the rate of evaporation due to increased kinetic energy, while lower temperature reduces it. c. Surface area: Greater surface area increases the rate of evaporation, while a smaller surface area slows it down.

Step-by-step solution

Effect of Intermolecular Forces on the Rate of Evaporation

The intermolecular forces refer to forces between molecules in a substance. These forces affect the rate of evaporation as they are responsible for holding the molecules together. The stronger the intermolecular forces, the more energy is needed to break the bonds and let the molecules evaporate. Therefore, the rate of evaporation decreases as the strength of the intermolecular forces increases.

Effect of Temperature on the Rate of Evaporation

Temperature affects the rate of evaporation by providing the kinetic energy necessary for the molecules to break free and evaporate. As the temperature increases, the kinetic energy of the molecules increases, allowing them to overcome the intermolecular forces that hold them together. Consequently, as the temperature rises, the rate of evaporation also increases. Similarly, lowering the temperature reduces the amount of kinetic energy available to the molecules, resulting in a slower rate of evaporation.

Effect of Surface Area on the Rate of Evaporation

Surface area refers to the exposed area of the liquid to the surrounding environment. The rate of evaporation is directly proportional to the surface area exposed – a larger surface area allows for more molecules to evaporate at once. Therefore, if the surface area of the liquid increases, the rate of evaporation also increases. Conversely, if the surface area decreases, fewer molecules are exposed to the environment, and the rate of evaporation slows down.