The boiling point of hydrogen iodide (HI) is approximately -34.04 degrees Celsius (-29.27 degrees Fahrenheit) under standard atmospheric pressure.
This relatively low boiling point can be attributed to the molecular structure of HI. Hydrogen iodide is a polar molecule due to the significant difference in electronegativity between hydrogen and iodine. The hydrogen atom carries a partial positive charge, while the iodine atom carries a partial negative charge, resulting in dipole-dipole interactions between the molecules. However, these interactions are not strong enough to create a significantly high boiling point compared to other compounds like water, which has a higher boiling point due to stronger hydrogen bonding.
Understanding the boiling point of hydrogen iodide is useful in various scientific applications, particularly in chemistry and industrial processes where this compound is used. It’s important to handle it with care, given that it can be corrosive and harmful if inhaled or in contact with skin.