What is a superheated vapor?

A superheated vapor is characterized as a dry vapor that exists at a temperature significantly above its saturation temperature. This means that in this state, the vapor is not in equilibrium with its liquid phase and has absorbed additional heat, allowing it to exceed the temperature at which it typically condenses. This property of superheated vapor is crucial in various applications, including in processes such as thermodynamics and heat transfer, where the behavior of substances at different temperatures and pressures is critical to system efficiency and performance.

To emphasize, a superheated vapor does not contain liquid droplets and is often utilized in energy systems to improve efficiency and work potential, such as in steam engines or turbines. Therefore, understanding this definition is pivotal for professionals in the field, such as those involved with the FDNY, who may deal with various forms of vapor in emergency situations.