What is the boiling point of pure water at standard atmospheric pressure?

Study for the IGCSE C10 Chemistry Test. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations to get ready for your exam!

The boiling point of pure water at standard atmospheric pressure is 100°C. This temperature is recognized as the point at which water transitions from a liquid state to a gaseous state, allowing water molecules to escape into the air as steam. Under standard atmospheric pressure, which is defined as 1 atmosphere (atm) or 101.3 kPa, water consistently boils at this temperature.

Different pressures affect the boiling point due to changes in the atmospheric pressure exerted on the liquid. For instance, at lower altitudes, where the atmospheric pressure is higher, water boils at this established boiling point. Conversely, at higher altitudes, where atmospheric pressure decreases, water boils at temperatures lower than 100°C.

The other temperature options do not represent the boiling point of water at standard conditions. For example, boiling points of 90°C, 110°C, or 80°C do not accurately reflect the characteristics of water under normal atmospheric pressure, as they either fall below or exceed the standard boiling point. Understanding this fundamental property of water is essential as it has practical implications in various scientific and everyday processes, such as cooking and industrial applications.

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