partial pressure

noun

, Physics, Chemistry.

1. the pressure that a gas in a mixture of gases would exert if it occupied the same volume as the mixture at the same temperature.

partial pressure

noun

1. the pressure that a gas, in a mixture of gases, would exert if it alone occupied the whole volume occupied by the mixture

Word History and Origins

Origin of partial pressure¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

Once the MOF is filled with CO2, the CO2 can be removed, or desorbed, by lowering the partial pressure of CO2, either by flushing with a different gas or putting it in a vacuum.

From Science Daily

Alongside the experiments and outreach, Dituri has learned how to cook a “solid” poached salmon in the microwave — the habitat’s partial pressure means he can’t use an open flame — and learned that crab legs might not be the best meal choice.

From Los Angeles Times

“Everyone is working in conditions that are like an incubator, where the partial pressure of oxygen is much higher than in the body,” Kieda says.

From Nature

At higher elevations, the partial pressure of oxygen in the atmosphere is significantly lower.

From Seattle Times

At higher elevations, the partial pressure of oxygen in the atmosphere is significantly lower.

From Washington Post