Which term best describes the pressure exerted by a saturated vapor above its own liquid in a closed container?

• A. Partial pressure
• B. Vapor pressure
• C. Atmospheric pressure
• D. Osmotic pressure

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the scenario: A saturated vapor above its own liquid in a closed container means the vapor is in equilibrium with the liquid phase.
2. Recall the definition of vapor pressure: It is the pressure exerted by a vapor in equilibrium with its liquid (or solid) phase at a given temperature in a closed system.
3. Compare the given options: Partial pressure refers to the pressure of a single gas in a mixture; atmospheric pressure is the pressure exerted by the weight of the atmosphere; osmotic pressure relates to solvent movement through a semipermeable membrane.
4. Identify that the pressure exerted by the saturated vapor above its liquid is specifically called vapor pressure because it depends on the liquid's tendency to evaporate and reach equilibrium.
5. Conclude that the best term describing this pressure is vapor pressure.