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Boiling & Freezing Point Calculator

GPSA Ch. 1

Boiling & Freezing Point Calculator
Determines boiling points and freezing points for pure hydrocarbon components and mixtures. Calculates pressure-adjusted boiling points via the Clausius-Clapeyron equation, and bubble/dew point temperatures for multi-component mixtures using Raoult's Law per GPSA Ch. 1. Read Fundamentals →
GPSA Ch. 1 GPA 2145
Calculation Mode:
Single Component: Look up boiling point, freezing point, and critical properties for a pure component at a specified pressure.

Pure Component

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Normal Boiling Points of Common Components

ComponentBP (°F)FP (°F)Tc (°F)
Methane-258.7-296.5-116.7
Ethane-127.5-297.090.1
Propane-43.7-305.8206.2
n-Butane31.1-217.0305.7
n-Pentane96.9-201.5385.7
n-Hexane155.7-139.6453.7
Water212.032.0705.4
CO₂-109.3-69.987.9
H₂S-76.5-121.9212.7

Engineering Basis

Clausius-Clapeyron Equation:

ln(P₂/P₁) = (ΔHvap/R) × (1/T₁ − 1/T₂)

Relates vapor pressure to temperature using the heat of vaporization. Assumes constant ΔHvap over the temperature range. Used for pressure-adjusted boiling point estimation.

Raoult's Law (Mixture Bubble Point):

∑ zi × Ki = 1   where   Ki = Pvap,i / P

At the bubble point, the sum of each component's mole fraction times its K-value equals unity. K-values are estimated from the ratio of pure-component vapor pressure to system pressure.

Quick Reference

Pressure Effect: Higher pressure raises the boiling point. The Clausius-Clapeyron equation estimates this shift using the heat of vaporization.
Mixtures: Bubble point is the temperature where the first vapor bubble forms. Dew point is where the first liquid droplet condenses. The region between is the two-phase envelope.
Critical Point: Above the critical temperature and pressure, distinct liquid and vapor phases do not exist. The substance becomes a supercritical fluid.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are boiling points adjusted for pressure changes?

The calculator uses the Clausius-Clapeyron equation to estimate how boiling points shift with pressure. This relates vapor pressure to temperature using the heat of vaporization, per GPSA Ch. 1.

What is the difference between bubble point and dew point?

Bubble point is the temperature at which the first vapor bubble forms from a liquid mixture, while dew point is where the first liquid droplet condenses from a vapor mixture. Both are calculated using Raoult's Law for ideal mixtures.

What hydrocarbon components does this calculator cover?

The calculator includes pure component data for methane, ethane, propane, isobutane, n-butane, isopentane, n-pentane, and heavier hydrocarbons. Normal boiling points and freezing points are per GPSA Ch. 1 reference data.

Why are freezing points important in cryogenic processing?

Freezing points determine the minimum safe operating temperature to avoid solid formation (freeze-out) in cryogenic heat exchangers and columns. Heavier hydrocarbons like benzene can freeze and plug equipment at cryogenic conditions.