A liquid’s boiling point is the temperature at which the pressure of its escaping vapor is equal to the atmospheric pressure.
Reduced pressure on the surface of a liquid results in a reduction in the vapor pressure needed for boiling to occur. At higher elevations, thinner air causes a reduction in atmospheric pressure, and liquids boil at lower temperatures.
At lower elevations, the atmospheric pressure is higher, and liquids boil at higher temperatures.
If Diane boiled water for coffee while camping in the mountains, which statement best describes what would happen to the water?
A . boil at a lower temperature than it would at a lower elevation
B . boil at a higher temperature than it would at a lower elevation
C . boil at the same temperature as it would at a lower elevation
D . not boil at the high elevation in the mountains
E . change to steam before it had a chance to boil
Answer: A