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Condensation

Definition

Condensation is the process by which water vapor in the air cools down and changes from a gas state to a liquid state, forming clouds or dew.

Analogy

Think of condensation like when you take a cold drink out on a hot day. As the cold glass comes into contact with the warm air, moisture from the air turns into water droplets on the outside of the glass. This is similar to how water vapor in the air condenses into liquid droplets when it cools down.

Related terms

Evaporation: The process by which liquid water changes into water vapor, usually due to heat.

Precipitation: Any form of water that falls from the atmosphere to Earth's surface, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Humidity: The amount of moisture present in the air.

"Condensation" appears in:

Subjects (1)

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.