Physics 2012 JAMB Past Questions - Question 23: Which of the following is NOT a factor that can increase the rate of evaporation of water in a lake ?

Correct Answer

A

Explanation

Rate of evaporation increases with rise in temperature. increases in temperature increases the average speed of the the molecules and kinetic energy of the molecules of water. therefore increase in the pressure of the atmosphere will not increase the rate of evaporation of water in a lake.
Several factors can increase the rate of evaporation of water in a lake. These factors include:

1. **Temperature:** Higher temperatures generally lead to increased evaporation rates as they provide more energy to water molecules, allowing them to break their bonds and transition into vapor.

2. **Wind:** Wind can carry away the water vapor from the lake's surface, effectively reducing the concentration of water molecules near the surface and promoting evaporation.

3. **Surface Area:** A larger surface area of the lake allows for more water molecules to be exposed to the air, which can increase the rate of evaporation.

4. **Humidity:** Lower humidity levels in the surrounding air can increase the rate of evaporation, as the concentration gradient between the surface of the lake and the air is greater.

However, the presence of **pollutants or impurities in the water** does not typically increase the rate of evaporation. In fact, impurities can sometimes decrease the rate of evaporation, as they may interfere with the process by altering the surface tension and properties of the water. Additionally, impurities can absorb some of the incoming solar energy, reducing the energy available for evaporation.

So, the correct answer to your question is that the presence of pollutants or impurities in the water is NOT a factor that can increase the rate of evaporation in a lake.