What is the latent heat of steam per pound?

The latent heat of steam per pound is a crucial concept in thermodynamics and heat transfer, representing the amount of heat energy required to convert one pound of water into steam without a change in temperature. The value of 970 BTUs is scientifically established based on the specific energy required for this phase change.

When water reaches its boiling point at 212 degrees Fahrenheit, it begins to transform into steam. During this process, the temperature remains constant while the heat energy is absorbed, which is why it's termed "latent" heat. The significant amount of energy required is due to the strong hydrogen bonds between water molecules that must be overcome for the transition from liquid to vapor.

Thus, stating that the latent heat of steam is 970 BTUs per pound aligns with the accepted thermodynamic principles and empirical data gathered over time. This understanding is essential when calculating energy transfer in various engineering applications, especially those involving heating and cooling systems.