Physics Fair Experiments

48. Voluptuous mist (liquid nitrogen & hot water)

Liquid nitrogen has a temperature of -196 °C. Some liquid nitrogen is poured in a tray containing hot water. Observe the thick mist that is created.

Explanation 1: The water-vapour condenses to little droplets by the cold nitrogen, which we see as mist.

Explanation 1, 2: The hot water is producing much water-vapour. Liquid nitrogen is at -196 °C at its boiling point. When the nitrogen comes in contact with the water, it will boil heavier, producing nitrogen vapour (gas) at a fast rate. The evaporated nitrogen has, however, still a very low temperature. By this evaporated nitrogen, the water-vapour condenses to small water-drops, which we see as mist.