Condensation

Condensation is the process by which a gas changes into a liquid. This occurs when the temperature of the gas decreases, causing the gas particles to slow down and come closer together, eventually forming a liquid. It is essentially the opposite of evaporation, where a liquid changes into a gas.

How Does Condensation Occur?

Condensation occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cold surface. The warm air cools down, causing the water vapor in the air to condense into liquid water droplets. This can be seen on a cold glass of water on a hot day, where water droplets form on the outside of the glass.

Examples of Condensation

• Formation of dew on grass and leaves in the morning.
• Cloud formation in the atmosphere.
• Steam turning into water droplets on a bathroom mirror after a hot shower.
• Water droplets forming on the outside of a cold drink glass on a warm day.

Study Guide

1. What is condensation?
2. Describe how condensation occurs.
3. Provide examples of condensation in everyday life.

Understanding condensation is important as it is a fundamental process in the water cycle and plays a significant role in weather patterns and the formation of clouds. It also has practical applications in various industries, such as in the design of refrigeration systems and the production of distilled water.