What role does pressure play in the boiling point of a liquid?

The boiling point of a liquid is significantly influenced by the pressure exerted on it. When pressure increases, the boiling point of the liquid also increases. This occurs because boiling is defined as the point at which the vapor pressure of a liquid equals the surrounding atmospheric pressure. In simpler terms, the molecules of the liquid must acquire sufficient energy to escape into the vapor phase.

At higher pressures, the energy required for molecules to overcome this pressure barrier is greater, which means that the temperature must also increase in order for the liquid to boil. As a result, under elevated pressures, substances will boil at higher temperatures. This principle is pivotal in applications such as pressure cooking and industrial processes where controlling boiling points is essential for efficiency and safety.

Thus, the correct answer indicates that increased pressure raises the boiling point of a liquid, aligning with the physical principles underlying phase changes and vapor pressure.