Phenomenology of Real Fluids, Critical Point

This lecture explores the behavior of real fluids around the critical point, discussing the liquefaction zone, isothermal curves, and the distinction between liquids and gases based on phases observed at different volumes. It also delves into examples of supercritical fluids in nature, such as the decaffeination of coffee using supercritical CO2 and the presence of supercritical fluids in planetary atmospheres. Additionally, it covers the unique properties of supercritical water and its applications in various fields, including astrophysics and technology. The lecture concludes with a discussion on supercritical drying techniques and the essential concepts related to phase transitions and fluid equations of state.