Boiling above and below supercritical pressure

In summary, the main difference between the boiling process at supercritical pressure and subcritical pressure is that at subcritical pressure, the addition of energy can cause a saturated liquid to vaporize into a saturated vapor without an increase in temperature. At supercritical pressures, adding energy causes a single-phase region to expand and become more dense, resulting in an increase in temperature. It is not possible for boiling to occur at supercritical pressures.
  • #1
JJBladester
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Homework Statement



How does the boiling process at supercritical pressure differ from the boiling process at subcritical pressure?

Homework Equations



N/A

The Attempt at a Solution



I know that the critical point is the point on a P-v diagram where the saturated liquid and saturated vapor curves meet.

At subcritical pressures, we could have a saturated liquid where the addition of energy would cause some of the liquid to vaporize into a saturated vapor without an increase in temperature. This is boiling.

Can boiling even occur at supercritical pressures? I didn't think this was possible.
 
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  • #2
I thought that at supercritical pressures, adding energy would cause a single-phase region to expand and become more dense and the temperature would increase. Is this correct? Any additional information would be appreciated. Thanks!
 

Related to Boiling above and below supercritical pressure

1. What is the difference between boiling above and below supercritical pressure?

Boiling above supercritical pressure occurs when a substance is heated above its critical temperature and pressure, causing it to exist in a single phase known as a supercritical fluid. Boiling below supercritical pressure occurs when a substance is heated below its critical temperature and pressure, causing it to exist in two distinct phases - a liquid and a gas.

2. How does the boiling point change at supercritical pressures?

At supercritical pressures, the boiling point of a substance no longer exists as it would at lower pressures. Instead, the substance transitions directly from a liquid to a supercritical fluid as it is heated above its critical temperature.

3. What are the properties of a supercritical fluid?

A supercritical fluid has properties that are in between those of a liquid and a gas. It has a high density like a liquid, but its viscosity and diffusivity are similar to that of a gas. It also has the ability to dissolve substances like a liquid, but its solubility is much higher due to its higher density and lower intermolecular forces.

4. How is supercritical pressure used in industrial processes?

Supercritical pressure is used in various industrial processes, such as extraction, separation, and purification. The unique properties of supercritical fluids make them ideal for these applications, as they can dissolve a wide range of substances and can be easily manipulated by adjusting temperature and pressure.

5. What are the safety considerations when working with supercritical pressure?

Working with supercritical pressure requires specialized equipment and proper training to ensure safety. The high pressures involved can cause explosions if not handled correctly, and the properties of supercritical fluids can make them dangerous if they come into contact with certain materials. It is important to follow proper safety protocols and use proper protective gear when working with supercritical pressure.

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