explain why ethanol bails at 73degress celcius
Ethanol is a volatile liquid that readily evaporates at room temperature. The boiling point of ethanol, which is the temperature at which it changes from a liquid to a gas, is approximately 78 degrees Celsius (or 173 degrees Fahrenheit).
When we say that ethanol "boils" at 73 degrees Celsius, it is important to note that this temperature is below its actual boiling point. At 73 degrees Celsius, ethanol is starting to evaporate, producing vapor molecules that escape into the air. The rate of evaporation increases as the temperature rises.
Now, how can we determine the boiling point of ethanol? Here's a simple experiment you can do at home:
1. Obtain a clean test tube or a small glass container.
2. Pour a small amount of ethanol into the container, enough to cover the bottom.
3. Place a thermometer into the liquid, ensuring that the tip is submerged and not touching any container walls.
4. Set up a heat source, such as a Bunsen burner or a hot plate, underneath the container.
5. Gradually increase the heat while monitoring the temperature on the thermometer.
6. As the temperature rises, you will observe the ethanol starting to boil, indicated by the formation of bubbles and the rapid evaporation of the liquid.
7. Note the temperature at which this boiling begins, and that would be the approximate boiling point of ethanol under the experimental conditions.
It's worth mentioning that the boiling point of ethanol can vary slightly depending on factors such as atmospheric pressure and impurities present in the liquid. However, the normal boiling point of ethanol under standard conditions (at sea level pressure) is around 78 degrees Celsius.