What does condensation refer to in terms of phase changes?

Condensation refers to the phase change in which a gas transforms into a liquid. This process occurs when the temperature of the gas decreases or when it is subjected to increased pressure, causing the molecules to lose energy and come closer together to form a liquid.

In many practical examples, such as the formation of dew on grass or water droplets on a cold glass, you can observe condensation easily. When vapor comes into contact with a surface that is cooler than its dew point, it changes from gas to liquid, demonstrating the concept of condensation effectively.

The other phase changes involve different transformations: vaporization is the process through which a liquid becomes a gas; melting is the transition from solid to liquid; and sublimation is when a solid transforms directly into a gas. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the different physical processes that matter can undergo.