Final answer:
As the difference in partial pressure increases across two solutions, the rate of evaporation D. increases
Step-by-step explanation:
The rate of evaporation is influenced by the difference in partial pressure across two solutions. According to Dalton's Law, the partial pressure of a gas in a mixture is directly proportional to its concentration. In the context of solutions, the concentration of a gas (such as water vapor) in the air above a liquid is determined by its partial pressure.
When the difference in partial pressure increases across two solutions, it creates a higher concentration gradient. As a result, the rate of evaporation increases. This occurs because molecules at the liquid's surface gain sufficient energy to overcome the attractive forces of the liquid phase and transition into the gaseous phase.
To illustrate, consider two solutions with different vapor pressures. The solution with the higher vapor pressure will contribute more molecules to the air above it, leading to a greater concentration gradient. Consequently, the rate of evaporation from the solution with the higher vapor pressure will be D.higher.
Understanding the relationship between partial pressure and evaporation is crucial in various scientific and practical applications, including environmental science, chemistry, and drying processes in industries.