Massachusetts 2nd Class Fireman's Practice Exam

Increasing the pressure has what effect on the boiling point of water?

1. No change.

2. Temperature will be lowered.

3. Temperature will be raised.

4. Temperature will increase 2 degrees Fahrenheit for every PSI.

The correct answer is: Temperature will be raised.

Increasing the pressure has the effect of raising the boiling point of water. Under normal atmospheric pressure, water boils at 212 degrees Fahrenheit (100 degrees Celsius). However, when pressure is increased, the boiling point also increases, meaning water will reach higher temperatures before it begins to boil. This principle is widely utilized in applications such as pressure cookers and industrial processes, where higher temperatures can lead to faster cooking or more efficient chemical reactions. The relationship between pressure and the boiling point of water is crucial for fireman training, as understanding the properties of steam and water is essential for effective fire suppression and safety. A pressure increase of 1 PSI can increase the boiling point by approximately 3 degrees Fahrenheit, which is important for firefighters to know when combating fires or using firefighting equipment. This foundational knowledge underpins many practical applications in firefighting and safety protocols.