Condensation of a Supersaturated Vapor. I. The Homogeneous Nucleation of the n-Alkanes

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Abstract
The critical supersaturations required for the homogeneous nucleation of the normal alkanes, n‐hexane, n‐heptane, n‐octane, and n‐nonane, from their vapor have been measured in the temperature range 225–330°K using an upward thermal diffusion cloud chamber. The principles of operation of the chamber, its design, and construction are described in detail. The measurements are found to be in remarkably good agreement with the predictions of the classical (Volmer, Becker–Doering) theory. The Reiss–Katz–Cohen theory predictions are 8%–20% too low; the Lothe–Pound theory predictions are 30%–70% too low; for both theories the discrepancy increases with decreasing temperature.

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