Examples of Condensation: Overview, Questions, Preparation

All matter consists of molecules. In the gaseous form, the molecules are fast-moving, distant and energetic. As these fast-moving molecules encounter a cooler surface, they become closer to each other and less energetic and slow-moving as the heat energy is being taken away. Now, when these reach a threshold energy level, the vapour turns into a liquid state. This is how the process of condensation takes place.

Gas condenses at high pressure and low temperature. As long as the pressure of the condensing gas is higher than the pressure of its liquid state, a condensation reaction may take place.

The process of Condensation is integral for the water cycle. The water cycle shows how water exists in all three states of matter and continuously cycles through these states. At higher altitudes, water vapour changes to its liquid state, and these droplets formed accumulate to form clouds. These droplets then condense and precipitate as rain on the surface of the earth. The various forms of condensation are rain, snow, etc.

Condensation is an everyday phenomenon, and it's very common.

1) Morning dew: The moisture deposition in the form of water droplets on the cold surfaces of solid objects such as plant leaves, grass and stones is known as dew.

2) Windshield of a vehicle: The air in a vehicle has moisture. The people sitting in the car add to the moisture. When there is enough moisture and the windshield is cool, one sees the moisture condensing as droplets.

3) Droplets on a can/bottle: The cold surface of the can/bottle causes the warm air in the surroundings to condense as droplets.

4) Fog formed on the mirror: One usually notices a foggy mirror right after a hot shower because the moisture coming from the shower condenses quickly as droplets on the cold surface of the mirror.

5) Formation of clouds: As discussed earlier, condensation is responsible for the formation of clouds which result in precipitation.

6) Foggy breath: This is an example of condensation occurring without a surface available to collect the droplets. Usually happens when it’s cold outside.

7) Frost: Forms on cold surfaces when condensation takes place below the freezing point and hence, the deposition is in the form of minute ice crystals instead of water droplets. 

The topic is covered in Class 11 Chemistry under the chapter- States of Matter (Liquids and Gases) which along with Chemical bonding and Molecular structure, Chemical thermodynamics, and Equilibrium has a weightage of 21 marks.

Q: How does condensation take place?

Q: What is the difference between condensation and evaporation?

Q: Is snow a form of condensation?

Q: Can one avoid condensation at home?

Q: What happens first in the water cycle- Evaporation or Condensation?