The Slope of Sublimation Curve vs Vaporization Curve at Triple Point

The sublimation curve and vaporization curve are both phase diagrams that represent the relationship between temperature and pressure for a substance. The triple point is a specific point on these curves where all three phases (solid, liquid, and gas) coexist in equilibrium.

Definition of Sublimation and Vaporization

- Sublimation is the process in which a solid directly turns into a gas without passing through the liquid phase.
- Vaporization is the process in which a liquid turns into a gas.

Slope of Sublimation Curve

The sublimation curve depicts the conditions at which a substance can undergo sublimation. It shows the pressure and temperature values at which the solid and gas phases are in equilibrium. The slope of the sublimation curve represents the rate at which the pressure changes with respect to temperature during sublimation.

Slope of Vaporization Curve

The vaporization curve represents the conditions at which a substance can undergo vaporization. It shows the pressure and temperature values at which the liquid and gas phases are in equilibrium. The slope of the vaporization curve represents the rate at which the pressure changes with respect to temperature during vaporization.

Comparison at the Triple Point

At the triple point, all three phases of a substance coexist in equilibrium. This means that the solid, liquid, and gas phases are in equilibrium at a specific temperature and pressure. The slopes of the sublimation and vaporization curves at the triple point can be compared.

- The slope of the sublimation curve at the triple point indicates the rate at which the pressure changes with respect to temperature during sublimation.
- The slope of the vaporization curve at the triple point indicates the rate at which the pressure changes with respect to temperature during vaporization.

Conclusion

The correct answer is option 'C' - the slope of the sublimation curve is greater than the slope of the vaporization curve at the triple point. This means that the pressure changes more rapidly with respect to temperature during sublimation compared to vaporization at the triple point.