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Boiling Point Equation:
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The water boiling point equation calculates how the boiling temperature of water decreases with increasing altitude. This occurs because atmospheric pressure decreases at higher elevations, requiring less energy for water to transition from liquid to gas.
The calculator uses the boiling point equation:
Where:
Explanation: For every meter increase in altitude, the boiling point of water decreases by approximately 0.0033°C from the standard sea level boiling point of 100°C.
Details: Understanding how boiling point changes with altitude is crucial for cooking, sterilization processes, scientific experiments, and industrial applications where precise temperature control is necessary.
Tips: Enter the altitude in meters above sea level. The value must be a non-negative number. The calculator will compute the corresponding boiling point of water at that altitude.
Q1: Why does boiling point decrease with altitude?
A: As altitude increases, atmospheric pressure decreases. Since boiling occurs when vapor pressure equals atmospheric pressure, water boils at lower temperatures at higher altitudes.
Q2: How accurate is this equation?
A: The equation provides a good approximation for most practical purposes, though more precise calculations might consider additional factors like humidity and exact atmospheric conditions.
Q3: Does this affect cooking times?
A: Yes, at higher altitudes where water boils at lower temperatures, cooking times typically need to be increased as heat transfer is less efficient.
Q4: What is the boiling point at extreme altitudes?
A: At the summit of Mount Everest (8,848 meters), water boils at approximately 71°C, which significantly impacts cooking and water purification.
Q5: Are there other factors that affect boiling point?
A: Yes, dissolved substances in water (like salt) can raise the boiling point, while the equation provided only accounts for altitude-related pressure changes.