Discuss the various factors which affect the rate of evaporation. Latent heat of evaporation of two liquids A and B is 100 J/kg and 150 J/kg respectively. Which one can produce more cooling effect and why?

Factors affecting the rate of evaporation:

(a) Surface area: The rate of evaporation increases with increase in surface area.

(b) Temperature: The rate of evaporation increases with increase in temperature.

(c) Humidity: The rate of evaporation decreases with increase in humidity.

(d) Wind speed: The rate of evaporation increases with increase in wind speed.

(e) Nature of the liquid: The volatile compounds evaporate faster than less volatile compounds (liquids).

B will produce more cooling effect because it will absorb more heat from the surroundings for evaporation.