What does an increase in temperature generally do to vapor pressure?

An increase in temperature typically results in an increase in vapor pressure due to the increased kinetic energy of the molecules in the liquid. As the temperature rises, the molecules move faster, which increases the likelihood of some molecules escaping from the liquid phase into the vapor phase. This phenomenon occurs because higher temperatures provide the energy necessary for more molecules to overcome the intermolecular forces that hold them in the liquid. Consequently, a greater proportion of the molecules can enter the vapor phase, leading to a higher vapor pressure.

The relationship between temperature and vapor pressure is a fundamental principle in physical chemistry, illustrating that as temperature increases, the vapor pressure of a liquid also increases, reaching a saturation point at boiling. Understanding this relationship is crucial for operators working with systems that involve phase changes and equilibrium in various processes.