condensation
Definition
Condensation is the process by which water vapour in the air changes to liquid water. This happens when the water vapour molecules come into contact with each other and stick together.
The water vapour molecules need to be cooled down or the air pressure needs to be increased in order for them to condense.
Condensation is a reversible process, which means that liquid water can also turn into water vapour. This process is called evaporation.
How can the word be used?
The steam from the shower condensed on the mirror.
Different forms of the word
Noun:
Condensation: The act of condensing something.
Condensate: The product of condensation.
Adjective:
Condensed: Reduced in size or volume by condensation.
Verb:
To condense: To reduce the size or volume of something by condensation.
Etymology
The word "condensation" comes from the Latin word "condensare", which means "to make dense". It is made up of the prefix "con-", which means "together", and the verb "densare", which means "to make dense".
Question
Why can condensation build up on a window?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Define "condensation" in the context of physical science, and describe the process by which it occurs.
Answer:
In physical science, "condensation" refers to the phase change of a substance from a gaseous state to a liquid state due to a decrease in temperature.
The process of condensation occurs when gas particles lose energy, causing them to slow down and come closer together. As a result, the gas transitions into a liquid state as its molecules bond and form droplets. This phenomenon commonly takes place when warm, moist air encounters cooler surfaces, such as windows, mirrors, or cold outdoor surfaces.
For example, when water vapour in the air contacts a chilled window pane, it loses heat energy to the colder surface, causing the water molecules to slow down and condense into tiny water droplets on the window.